By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Despite quarantines and social distancing keeping people in their homes during the pandemic, Americans still say they know their neighbors. Almost 7 in 10 U.S. adults (68%) say they trust the people who live in their local community, according to a study from Nashville-based Lifeway Research. Close to a quarter of Americans (23%) … [Read more...]
Americans most want to avoid fear and anxiety, gain freedom and safety
By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. — After what was a scary year for many, more Americans say they want to avoid fear. According to a study from Nashville-based Lifeway Research, when asked which feeling they seek to avoid the most, 4 in 10 U.S. adults (41%) say fear. Far fewer say shame (24%) or guilt (22%). Around 1 in 10 aren’t sure. Fear topping the list is a marked … [Read more...]
Most pastors feel supported by other local ministers
By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The vast majority of pastors say they feel support from other ministers in their communities, but that encouragement is less prevalent in some places. According to a study from Nashville-based Lifeway Research, 82% of U.S. Protestant pastors say they feel supported by other local pastors in their area, with 44% strongly agreeing. … [Read more...]
U.S. Protestant Pastors Say Sexually Abusive Ministers Should Step Down Permanently
By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. — As Christian groups and denominations debate the proper response to clergy sexual misconduct (both child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault), most pastors believe those who commit such crimes should withdraw from public ministry permanently. At the recent Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting, the topic of pastoral sexual abuse … [Read more...]
Pastors Value Denominations Now, Not as Sure About the Future
By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- As many Protestant denominations prepare to gather this summer for their national meetings, most pastors believe it is vital for their church to be part of a denomination but doubt the importance of those types of ties lasting another decade. A Lifeway Research study asked Protestant pastors their thoughts on the importance of … [Read more...]
