Americans Are Increasingly Less Religious

Right wing radio and religious groups complain of "militant atheists," but in reality, atheists make up a small percent of the American population.  What is true, however, is that Americans and in particular, the younger generation, are leaving organized religion in droves.

The Fastest Growing Segment in the Religious Culture is the Non-Churchgoing Group.

In April, an extensive survey by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life was released which detailed the religious makeup, religious beliefs and practices as well as social and political attitudes of the American public..  More than 35,000 Americans were interviewed as part of this survey.  The Pew survey revealed that an astounding 16.1% of Americans are no longer affiliated with any religion.  In fact, of all "religious groups," the non-affiliated group is growing faster than any other group.

This was confirmed by the Barna Group, a reputable Evangelical research and polling firm which found that 15% of Americans are no longer affiliated with any religion.  Of all of the different religious groups in the world, the Barna Group found that the number of people who not belong to any organized religion is the third highest group, following Catholics and Baptists.

People are becoming increasingly secular because of the religious right's participation in politics.  Non-churchgoers feel that religious leaders are hypocritical and that religion focuses way too much on issues divisive such as gay rights and trying to integrate religion into government.

Not Going to Church Does Not Necessarily Mean No Spirituality.

Despite the fact that they are leaving the churches, many of the non-churchgoers still consider themselves to be spiritual.  Alternative beliefs such as Buddhism, Wicca or deism are becoming popular with non-churchgoers.

Surprisingly – and despite the non-affiliation with organized religion – a whopping 70% of Americans believe in Satan.  When it comes to the end times or a rapture, 44% of Americans profess to believe in a second coming of Jesus.  Of that 44%, half of them think it will happen during their lifetimes.

In an attempt to increase their flocks, some of the more progressive churches are changing their public focus to environmental issues.  Other churches are becoming less vocal about gays or abortion.

Conclusion.

Ultimately, if churches want to see an increase in their memberships, perhaps they need to step out of the political arena and focus on the message of Christ.  Attempting to force the church into government, marginalizing non-believers and promoting messages of hate only serves to alienate the populace.

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