Is there a reason that an unprecedented number of senior citizens are leaving the church?
According to the Christian Post, research from both Gallup and Pew Research show a growing shift in the number of elderly people deciding to forego weekly church attendance over the past two decades. In the Gallup research poll, 60% of U.S. citizens over 65 went to church on a weekly basis. In 2020, that figure changed to 45% , marking a 15-point percentage decline.
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The Pew Research Center looked at the church attendance rates of those in the Silent Generation and the older end of Baby Boomers and also found a ten percent drop in those who are going to church. These drops come as new Barna Research found a growing number of women leaving the church, especially among Millennials and Gen X.
So, why is this shift happening for the elderly?
As the Christian Post reported, some cite their health and mobility as reasons that limit their ability to attend church. Others find themselves in the role of being a caretaker for spouses or other family members which limit their ability to do so.
Loneliness is another reason why the report states that the elderly may not stay in church. As friends leave or pass away, along with the focus of reaching the next generation in many churches, elder adults just may feel left out. Changes within the church that they are uncomfortable with are another reason that they leave as well.
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As we reflect on these trends, it is crucial to lift up our elderly brothers and sisters in prayer. Let’s pray that God would guide them to vibrant church communities where they feel welcomed, valued and spiritually nourished, and that they may continue to grow in faith and experience the joy of fellowship in their golden years.
Abby Trivett is a writer and editor for Charisma Media and has a passion for sharing the gospel through the written word. She holds two degrees from Regent University, a B.A. in Communication with a concentration in Journalism and a Master of Arts in Journalism. She is the author of the upcoming book, The Power of Suddenly: Discover How God Can Change Everything in a Moment.
