A recent survey conducted by the Barna Group (6.8.09 barna.org) clearly indicates that Americans are seeking new and different church experiences when it comes to traditional church services. Consider the following:
- 100 million adults (45% of the general population) were willing to try a new church because of dissatisfaction at the one they currently attend
- Approximately 7% of all Christians are now attending “home churches”
- 75% surveyed cited they want to stay connected to God, but through different methods and experiences than those had in the past.
- Today, people are ready to pursue their faith - but in an environment different than the “typical” church setting. 50% expressed they were tired of the usual church experience.
- An astounding 71% said they were likely to develop their own religious beliefs as oppose the doctrines and methods of traditional churches.
- Two out of three adults are not tied to a conventional or traditional church.
One thing is certain - the majority of the population today is interested in hearing the Word of God with a new approach – relevant in today’s society. For certain, there is a massive realignment of religious behavior over the past decade. It is important for those in ministry to seek fresh and innovative means to attract and sustain its members and followers.
BMCFerrell believes it is imperative to understand another finding from the Barna Group: “Millions of adults are becoming more reliant on faith-based media such as television, radio, and the Internet as their choice for religious experience and expression.”
