By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The coronavirus outbreak has had ripple effects across the country, including in U.S. churches, according to a new study of pastors. Nashville-based LifeWay Research asked Protestant pastors how the pandemic has impacted their congregations and what their plans are for the near future. While nearly all pastors say their church held … [Read more...]
Livestreaming services hasn’t been an option for many churches
By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance for groups during the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak recommended no gatherings of more than 50 people for eight weeks. As churches scramble to make decisions on how to move forward, new research finds many congregations are not prepared to shift their services online. A … [Read more...]
Most Protestant Churchgoers Don’t Go to Church Alone
By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. — When traveling to church, most people have company, but a significant number say they make the trip alone. A new study from Nashville-based LifeWay Research found 1 in 5 Protestant churchgoers (19%) say they typically travel to church alone. Most travel to church with their spouse (54%), while close to a third say their child or … [Read more...]
Mainline pastors drive growth in pastoral support for same-sex marriage
By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Approval for same-sex relationships has grown among Protestant pastors, but a majority still disapprove. A new survey from Nashville-based LifeWay Research asked Protestant pastors their thoughts on same-gender marriages and civil unions. In the most recent survey, 24% of pastors say they see nothing wrong with two people of the same … [Read more...]
Most Churches Plan for Potential Gunman, Divided Over Armed Congregants
By Aaron Earls In the aftermath of several high-profile church shootings, most Protestant pastors say their congregations have taken some precautions to protect those in attendance. Since 2000, 19 fatal shootings have taken place at Christian churches, while gunmen have also taken lives at other religious sites like Jewish synagogues, a Sikh temple and an Amish … [Read more...]
