A Shift in Church Attendance: Gen Z and Millennials Take the Lead
A recent study by Barna Group and Gloo has revealed a surprising shift in church attendance, with Gen Z and Millennials surpassing older generations. According to the study, Gen Z churchgoers attend an average of 1.9 weekends per month, while Millennials average 1.8 times. This marks a significant increase from 2020, when both generations attended approximately one weekend per month. The study suggests that young people are showing a renewed openness to faith, with many finding their way back into church communities.
A Call to Deepen Faith
David Kinnaman, CEO of Barna Group, notes that this moment invites leaders to guide young people toward deeper faith. While church attendance alone doesn’t form disciples, churches that offer relational connection, volunteer engagement, and clear discipleship pathways can help younger generations build a resilient and lasting faith. The study highlights the importance of adapting church life to meet the needs of younger generations.
A Changing Landscape
The shift in church attendance reflects a broader trend of changing participation rates among different age groups. Older adults, who were once the most reliable churchgoers, have seen a consistent decline in attendance over the past 25 years. In contrast, Gen Z and Millennials are driving growth in church attendance, with non-white Millennials playing a significant role in this trend. As churches adapt to these changes, they must prioritize building connections with younger generations and providing meaningful discipleship opportunities.
