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Churchless: Understanding Today's Unchurched and How to Connect with Them
Churchless people are all around among our closest loved ones, at our workplaces, in our neighborhoods. And more and more, they are becoming the The number of churchless adults in the US has grown by nearly one-third in the past decade. Yet the startling truth is that many of these people claim they are looking for a genuine, powerful encounter with God―but they just don’t find it in church . What are they (or we) missing? How can we better reach out to them? What can we say or do that would inspire them to want to join a community of faith? Containing groundbreaking new research from the Barna Group, and edited by bestselling authors George Barna ( Revolution ) and David Kinnaman ( You Lost Me ), Churchless reveals the results of a five-year study based on interviews with thousands of churchless men and women. Looking past the surface of church attendance to deeper spiritual realities, Churchless will help us understand those who choose not to be part of a church, build trust-based relationships with them, and be empowered to successfully invite them to engage.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2014
40 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
About the author
George Barna
151 books68 followersGeorge Barna was raised and educated on the East Coast before moving to California in the early 1980s. He held executive positions in advertising, public policy, political campaigns, and media/marketing research before beginning his own company, the Barna Research Group (now The Barna Group), in 1984. The firm analyzes American culture and creates resources and experiences designed to facilitate moral and spiritual transformation. Located in Ventura, California, The Barna Group provides primary research as well as developmental resources and analytic diagnostics. The company has served several hundred parachurch ministries and thousands of Christian churches throughout the country. It has also supplied research to for-profit corporations such as Ford Motor Company, The Walt Disney Company, Visa USA, and Prudential, and has assisted the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army as well.
To date, George Barna has written more than 40 books, predominantly in the areas of leadership, trends, spiritual development, and church health. Included among them are bestsellers such as Revolution, Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions, The Frog in the Kettle, The Power of Vision, and Pagan Christianity? Several of his books have received national awards. He has also written for numerous periodicals and has published various syndicated reports on topics related to faith and lifestyle. He also writes a bimonthly research report, The Barna Update, which is accessed by hundreds of thousands of people through his firm's Web site (www.barna.org). His work is frequently cited as an authoritative source by the media. He has been hailed as "the most quoted person in the Christian church today" and is counted among its most influential leaders. In 2009, George initiated Metaformation, a new organization designed to help people maximize their potential. More information about his current projects is available from www.georgebarna.com.
Barna is a popular speaker at ministry conferences around the world and has taught at several universities and seminaries. He has served as a pastor of a large multiethnic church, has been involved in several church plants, and currently leads an organic church. He has served on the board of directors of various organizations. After graduating summa cum laude from Boston College, Barna earned two master's degrees from Rutgers University. At Rutgers, he was awarded the Eagleton Fellowship. He also received a doctorate from Dallas Baptist University. He lives with his wife and their three daughters in Southern California. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing, reading novels, playing and listening to guitar, relaxing on the beach, visiting bookstores, and eating pizza.
To date, George Barna has written more than 40 books, predominantly in the areas of leadership, trends, spiritual development, and church health. Included among them are bestsellers such as Revolution, Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions, The Frog in the Kettle, The Power of Vision, and Pagan Christianity? Several of his books have received national awards. He has also written for numerous periodicals and has published various syndicated reports on topics related to faith and lifestyle. He also writes a bimonthly research report, The Barna Update, which is accessed by hundreds of thousands of people through his firm's Web site (www.barna.org). His work is frequently cited as an authoritative source by the media. He has been hailed as "the most quoted person in the Christian church today" and is counted among its most influential leaders. In 2009, George initiated Metaformation, a new organization designed to help people maximize their potential. More information about his current projects is available from www.georgebarna.com.
Barna is a popular speaker at ministry conferences around the world and has taught at several universities and seminaries. He has served as a pastor of a large multiethnic church, has been involved in several church plants, and currently leads an organic church. He has served on the board of directors of various organizations. After graduating summa cum laude from Boston College, Barna earned two master's degrees from Rutgers University. At Rutgers, he was awarded the Eagleton Fellowship. He also received a doctorate from Dallas Baptist University. He lives with his wife and their three daughters in Southern California. He enjoys spending time with his family, writing, reading novels, playing and listening to guitar, relaxing on the beach, visiting bookstores, and eating pizza.
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March 4, 2024
Enjoyed reading and thinking about ways to understand and potentially reach people who are “churchless”. While this book did offer some ways to help in reaching people who aren’t Christian it didn’t say you had to follow their list which I thought was good they didn’t put evangelism into a box. Reading books like this always makes me sad to see the number of people who don’t know Jesus and who have been involved in church at some point but no longer attend. I always think if only they could have gone to one of the churches I have been involved in then they’d understand the gospel. But the truth is that God is sovereign and will bring those people back if that is a part of His plan. I pray that those who have left will come back and those who have never been exposed to the gospel can hear the good news and know their great need for a Savior and their great Savior for their need. I also pray that God will continue to be at work in the ministries I’m involved in and by His grace use those ministries to point people to Him.
February 19, 2015
Based on 18 nationwide surveys, this alarmist guide to the ‘unchurched’ is very much intended for use by the establishment. What is driving people away? What are churches failing to offer? The book seems to take a reduction in American churchgoing as sure evidence of declining morality. “Religiosity in decline,” one chart reads. Two-fifths of people consider themselves post-Christian! Secularism is on the rise!
The authors acknowledge two major hurdles to church-going: the sense that God is missing, and the suspicion that Christians might be missing the point. Yet they do not specifically address either issue; they just resolve, “More than anything else, churches have to deliver the goods.” (What might those be?!) The economic valuation of faith is disappointing, as is the notion of the “agendaless agenda” of evangelism. (If you have to label it as such, it’s definitely an agenda.)
Ultimately, this book doesn’t reflect where I am right now, and I was also annoyed by the constant plugging of the one author’s Barna Group of religious research. However, the statistics presented are quite interesting, if not for the reason they hope. For instance, it emerges that life goals, sense of purpose, behavior and media use are very similar across the board. In other words, there is not some large, visible difference between the churched and the unchurched.
If you are among that heathen (I mean unchurched) mass, I would recommend you seek out Kelly Bean’s How to Be a Christian Without Going to Church instead.
[I had never heard of the ‘Mosaic’ generation, born between 1984 and 2002; this is in contrast to the ‘Busters’, born 1965 to 1983. It’s fascinating to see that I’m right on the line between the two age groups.]
The authors acknowledge two major hurdles to church-going: the sense that God is missing, and the suspicion that Christians might be missing the point. Yet they do not specifically address either issue; they just resolve, “More than anything else, churches have to deliver the goods.” (What might those be?!) The economic valuation of faith is disappointing, as is the notion of the “agendaless agenda” of evangelism. (If you have to label it as such, it’s definitely an agenda.)
Ultimately, this book doesn’t reflect where I am right now, and I was also annoyed by the constant plugging of the one author’s Barna Group of religious research. However, the statistics presented are quite interesting, if not for the reason they hope. For instance, it emerges that life goals, sense of purpose, behavior and media use are very similar across the board. In other words, there is not some large, visible difference between the churched and the unchurched.
If you are among that heathen (I mean unchurched) mass, I would recommend you seek out Kelly Bean’s How to Be a Christian Without Going to Church instead.
[I had never heard of the ‘Mosaic’ generation, born between 1984 and 2002; this is in contrast to the ‘Busters’, born 1965 to 1983. It’s fascinating to see that I’m right on the line between the two age groups.]
February 23, 2015
Helpful, but nowhere near as groundbreaking as You Lost Me or UnChristian. This ALMOST felt like leftovers, and some vague platitudes didnt help me feel hopeful. It also seems to contradict itself at time, saying in one place that loving relationships are important, and in other places that they aren't effective.
Still, the trends are interesting and it can serve as a good tool for helping churches face the realities of post-Christian culture. What becomes apparent, for an Adventist audience, is that public campaigns are no only increasingly ineffective, but also potentially damaging to the church's reputation in the community.
Still, the trends are interesting and it can serve as a good tool for helping churches face the realities of post-Christian culture. What becomes apparent, for an Adventist audience, is that public campaigns are no only increasingly ineffective, but also potentially damaging to the church's reputation in the community.
May 7, 2023
A simple and succinct exposé on who the unchurched are and what motivates them; and how the church can authentically approach the churchless
This book was written in 2014 so the stats are outdated in the sense that the numbers are definitely going to have shifted. But the overall trend still stands
This book was written in 2014 so the stats are outdated in the sense that the numbers are definitely going to have shifted. But the overall trend still stands
February 12, 2019
Lots and lots of statistics. Leaves you to do the legwork of applying them. It's honest, but not real helpful.
June 26, 2024
I think this book holds even more today than it did in 2014.
August 27, 2023
I am not sure why, but I thought this was going to be a bit more academic. It does do a fair amount of bringing in polling/survey results, but it is clearly "how do we get people back in CHRISTIAN churches?" The author gives a very dismissive take on Catholics, Mormons, and other religions/churches such as Muslims and other world religions.
Given that there are some interesting and telling items covered. He certainly brings out just how bad many people feel about churchgoers - something I have found many churchgoers have a distorted view.
He brings out many non church goers (many who are previous churchgoers) think church attendance is boring and irrelevant to their lives and happiness. And many are not impressed with the results of "faith". Many see the result of faith is more "I am right, and you need to be like me." I like the statements of churchgoers are more likely to have a preset agenda than wanting to respond to issues with congregants and then the one that churches are answering questions non-church attenders are not asking. I laughed at the statement that most churchgoers tend to be mroe on the "Pharisaical" side of the scale, and I agree.
The author also mentioned that non churchgoers think it is important in their lives to help others and do good - and that churches should stop just shouting "Jesus" and focusing on doing substantial good in communities while inviting others.
He does have some good advice at the end of the book and churches would be wise to look at these and attempt to adopt them.
Given that there are some interesting and telling items covered. He certainly brings out just how bad many people feel about churchgoers - something I have found many churchgoers have a distorted view.
He brings out many non church goers (many who are previous churchgoers) think church attendance is boring and irrelevant to their lives and happiness. And many are not impressed with the results of "faith". Many see the result of faith is more "I am right, and you need to be like me." I like the statements of churchgoers are more likely to have a preset agenda than wanting to respond to issues with congregants and then the one that churches are answering questions non-church attenders are not asking. I laughed at the statement that most churchgoers tend to be mroe on the "Pharisaical" side of the scale, and I agree.
The author also mentioned that non churchgoers think it is important in their lives to help others and do good - and that churches should stop just shouting "Jesus" and focusing on doing substantial good in communities while inviting others.
He does have some good advice at the end of the book and churches would be wise to look at these and attempt to adopt them.
June 8, 2024
An insightful, research-based study on why fewer people are connected to a church, whether they are Christian or not. Published in 2014, well before the COVID-19 pandemic, the researchers' findings have likely only been excellerated. Fewer and fewer people find value in associating with a church because churches in general (and Christians in particular) are, basically, looking less like Jesus. Being more like Jesus won't solve the problem (people rejected Jesus during his earthly ministry!), but it is the right place to start. For churches to once again appeal to people, they must rediscover a robust understanding of how deep theology applies to everyday life, and Christians must demonstrate how that theology is lived out in practical ways as they love God and their neighbors. Mass-marketing campaigns and well-executed worship "experiences" simply won't cut it. People are looking for God and they need to see the church as the place to find him and know him in order for them to consider getting connected to a church.
Side note: While the book as a whole explores the specific findings of the research, the reader who is pressed for time (or who simply isn't as interested in the details!) may best be served by skipping to the final couple chapters, where the authors lay out clear and succinct ideas for how to better reach the unchurched.
Side note: While the book as a whole explores the specific findings of the research, the reader who is pressed for time (or who simply isn't as interested in the details!) may best be served by skipping to the final couple chapters, where the authors lay out clear and succinct ideas for how to better reach the unchurched.
Read
June 8, 2020It would pay Christian churches to first read this book before they embark on grandiose fact finding missions to establish why their numbers are dwindling all the time.
The Barna foundation carried out thorough research on the reasons why some people belong to churches while others decide to do the journey on their own. Suggestions are given to churches on how to regain the trust of the churchless especially those that formerly belonged.
It is important to note that churchless does not necessarily mean Godless. A large proportion of the churchless will testify that they still belief in God, but not in the church.
Although the research was carried out on American society the findings apply universally. Irrespective of which side of the fence you are on, you will recognize a lot of the reasons and or findings described in the book and find value therein. If only it is to find that you are not isolated, that people elsewhere experienced the same or to assist you in defining your concerns with better clarity.
Although this work contains a lot of statistics, it remains an easy read content wise.
The Barna foundation carried out thorough research on the reasons why some people belong to churches while others decide to do the journey on their own. Suggestions are given to churches on how to regain the trust of the churchless especially those that formerly belonged.
It is important to note that churchless does not necessarily mean Godless. A large proportion of the churchless will testify that they still belief in God, but not in the church.
Although the research was carried out on American society the findings apply universally. Irrespective of which side of the fence you are on, you will recognize a lot of the reasons and or findings described in the book and find value therein. If only it is to find that you are not isolated, that people elsewhere experienced the same or to assist you in defining your concerns with better clarity.
Although this work contains a lot of statistics, it remains an easy read content wise.
December 16, 2023
This book provides an insightful and data-driven exploration into the world of the unchurched, offering invaluable insights for ministry leaders seeking to transform their communities.
Grounded in extensive research, the book not only profiles the characteristics and reasons behind the growing unchurched population but also delves into the cultural shifts and digital dynamics shaping their perspectives. For ministry leaders aspiring to connect with the unchurched, the book offers practical strategies, emphasizing the importance of community, adaptive ministry models, and overcoming perceived barriers.
"Churchless" is a blend of depth and practicality, making it an valuable resource for those looking to impact lives and build meaningful connections in today's diverse cultural landscape.
Grounded in extensive research, the book not only profiles the characteristics and reasons behind the growing unchurched population but also delves into the cultural shifts and digital dynamics shaping their perspectives. For ministry leaders aspiring to connect with the unchurched, the book offers practical strategies, emphasizing the importance of community, adaptive ministry models, and overcoming perceived barriers.
"Churchless" is a blend of depth and practicality, making it an valuable resource for those looking to impact lives and build meaningful connections in today's diverse cultural landscape.
April 12, 2023
As others have said, the trends and statistics are interesting and helpful to a point, but it felt limited.
The two major sticking points that were raised as reasons people left the church were the sense that God is missing there, and that Christians might be missing the point. I don't think these were adequately answered in the chapter at the end about the importance of the church and ways the church can better reach out and serve local communities.
It would be interesting to see how these trends have developed in the decade since publishing, and to see a new analysis, with hopefully more helpful solutions.
I was waiting to see if there would be mention of the communities that Barna's book 'Revolution' discussed, but but there wasn't.
The two major sticking points that were raised as reasons people left the church were the sense that God is missing there, and that Christians might be missing the point. I don't think these were adequately answered in the chapter at the end about the importance of the church and ways the church can better reach out and serve local communities.
It would be interesting to see how these trends have developed in the decade since publishing, and to see a new analysis, with hopefully more helpful solutions.
I was waiting to see if there would be mention of the communities that Barna's book 'Revolution' discussed, but but there wasn't.
October 14, 2017
Anyone who is interested in the future of the Church and about the general stance of those that are unchurched NEED to read this book. There were a few surprises, not the least of which is how many unchurched individuals are not only open to faith matters but how many of them are people that feel as if they have had to step away from the Church but not Jesus. It should leave those of us in leadership in the Church asking some hard questions about why so many are leaving and what role our leadership, or lack thereof, has played in this set of events.
October 24, 2023
I read this simply for the data and survey results. George Barna does excellent work, as always, analyzing the cohort I usually call "spiritual, but not religious," although I didn't coin that term and his label of "churchless" is a somewhat different population. The graphs and charts are all in black and white in the paperback version. Kind of a let down.
May 7, 2021
I think we have no idea the state that people are in. We ignore most of the time or judge at times. Jesus still has a lot of people to rescue. This book helps you see the state and mindset of one of the harvest fields the lies before us. Enjoyed
July 1, 2022
Good book to understand Churchless in the USA
Good overview to understand the Churchless in the USA. Churches need to listen more and have compassion for those who are not in a faith community.
Good overview to understand the Churchless in the USA. Churches need to listen more and have compassion for those who are not in a faith community.
June 22, 2017
Very interesting data and good arguments presented in this book.
March 3, 2018
I liked this for the data and research behind the unchurched community.
April 6, 2024
Not as earth shattering or novel as I expected.
May 30, 2024
Interesting, helpful info.
December 5, 2018
An interesting, yet somewhat dated read about the life of the church, church attendance and why people no longer feel compelled to attend church. The research offers some unique insights into these questions.
September 7, 2019
This is the second in a trilogy of books by the Barna Group addressing why the church today is not connecting with younger people. The book is an analysis of the US demographic that does not go to church. As such it reads like a book for statistics fans, with graph after graph with dry commentary.
There are some interesting facts such as that the unchurched do not appear too different in terms of interests and goals as people who go to church. Also, that the unchurched view themselves as spiritual and look for ways of expressing this, as the church is not fulfilling this need in them. However, the conclusions do not seem groundbreaking, especially after reading the other 2 books in the trilogy.
There are some interesting facts such as that the unchurched do not appear too different in terms of interests and goals as people who go to church. Also, that the unchurched view themselves as spiritual and look for ways of expressing this, as the church is not fulfilling this need in them. However, the conclusions do not seem groundbreaking, especially after reading the other 2 books in the trilogy.
December 24, 2014
Atheism has been on the rise increasingly for the past few years, while this book is not about atheism, it is certainly similar to about another issue the church is facing — the rising number of the unchurched.
In this book, George Barna & David Kinnaman talks about the unchurched. These are individuals who have participated or belonged to the church in the past but have for one reason or another stopped going to church, some completely, some only return during special occasions.
The book shows using the statistics they gathered to show the readers the magnitude of the problem and also describes the profile of a typical unchurch. This was discussed in detail, Barna and Kinnaman shows the mindset of a typical unchurch, their perception of the church, their response towards church invitations, etc….
What was refreshing about this book is the way they not only showed the statistics, but they also reveal many enlightening facts about the unchurched. Some things that we might have assumed to be helpful or useful in our evangelising or outreach to the unchurch might not be as receptive as we envisioned it to be. Barna and Kinnaman also gives some suggestions to how churches can modify in way they perform their outreach and also in the way how churches can have more impact in the communities that they are in.
There are also some drawbacks, the book is at best only able to speak about the general trends, and pastors should read this thoughtfully. The book will help pastors understand some things about the unchurch and gather useful information about them from this book. The burden however still lies on the pastor to think through carefully what to do with the information they have gathered.
This book no doubt serve the american pastors the most, for international readers, perhaps this will be a good book to think critically about the unchurched in your own culture. Recommended if you want to know more about the new generation of churchless people around us.
Rating: 4 / 5
Disclaimer: I was given this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
In this book, George Barna & David Kinnaman talks about the unchurched. These are individuals who have participated or belonged to the church in the past but have for one reason or another stopped going to church, some completely, some only return during special occasions.
The book shows using the statistics they gathered to show the readers the magnitude of the problem and also describes the profile of a typical unchurch. This was discussed in detail, Barna and Kinnaman shows the mindset of a typical unchurch, their perception of the church, their response towards church invitations, etc….
What was refreshing about this book is the way they not only showed the statistics, but they also reveal many enlightening facts about the unchurched. Some things that we might have assumed to be helpful or useful in our evangelising or outreach to the unchurch might not be as receptive as we envisioned it to be. Barna and Kinnaman also gives some suggestions to how churches can modify in way they perform their outreach and also in the way how churches can have more impact in the communities that they are in.
There are also some drawbacks, the book is at best only able to speak about the general trends, and pastors should read this thoughtfully. The book will help pastors understand some things about the unchurch and gather useful information about them from this book. The burden however still lies on the pastor to think through carefully what to do with the information they have gathered.
This book no doubt serve the american pastors the most, for international readers, perhaps this will be a good book to think critically about the unchurched in your own culture. Recommended if you want to know more about the new generation of churchless people around us.
Rating: 4 / 5
Disclaimer: I was given this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
November 6, 2014
Drive by the parking lot of many churches on Sunday morning and count the empty slots. Church attendance seems to be in decline, and many no longer consider church attendance a viable investment of time. Perhaps it is time we ask, “Why?”
In Churchless, George Barna and David Kinnaman give a look into the thoughts and practices of both the churched and unchurched. The book is stuffed with survey results, statistics, and charts but the data is presented in a digestible format. Don’t think boring lab report. Think useful answer book.
Who are the unchurched? What do they think? What are their goals? Why do they avoid church? How do they differ from the churched? Some may shy away from such pointed questions, but these authors do not. Barna and Kinnaman present the results of their multi-year conversations and interviews in an easy-to-read format.
Be prepared for some shockers. For example, Churchless tells readers a two-decade shift in attendance patterns now gives this definition of a churchgoer, “Today a regular churchgoer shows up for worship once every four to six weeks.”
As a service to readers the authors have provided a website where color copies of many of the charts may be downloaded for use in presentations. Additionally each chapter ends with a Forward Thinking section offering insightful questions to foster discussion.
I would recommend Churchless to anyone seeking an understanding of the trends around us. Pastors, elders, and church leadership teams may benefit from a study of the text followed by realistic conversation on what is working and not working in the organization’s outreach and ministry.
Albert Einstein defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Barna and Kinnaman have done the research to ask the unchurched what appeals to them and what turns them off in organized religion. Is it time to adjust our methods? Read Churchless, and prayerfully consider the data.
Note - Tyndale House Publishers provided a complimentary copy of Churchless to facilitate this review.
In Churchless, George Barna and David Kinnaman give a look into the thoughts and practices of both the churched and unchurched. The book is stuffed with survey results, statistics, and charts but the data is presented in a digestible format. Don’t think boring lab report. Think useful answer book.
Who are the unchurched? What do they think? What are their goals? Why do they avoid church? How do they differ from the churched? Some may shy away from such pointed questions, but these authors do not. Barna and Kinnaman present the results of their multi-year conversations and interviews in an easy-to-read format.
Be prepared for some shockers. For example, Churchless tells readers a two-decade shift in attendance patterns now gives this definition of a churchgoer, “Today a regular churchgoer shows up for worship once every four to six weeks.”
As a service to readers the authors have provided a website where color copies of many of the charts may be downloaded for use in presentations. Additionally each chapter ends with a Forward Thinking section offering insightful questions to foster discussion.
I would recommend Churchless to anyone seeking an understanding of the trends around us. Pastors, elders, and church leadership teams may benefit from a study of the text followed by realistic conversation on what is working and not working in the organization’s outreach and ministry.
Albert Einstein defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Barna and Kinnaman have done the research to ask the unchurched what appeals to them and what turns them off in organized religion. Is it time to adjust our methods? Read Churchless, and prayerfully consider the data.
Note - Tyndale House Publishers provided a complimentary copy of Churchless to facilitate this review.
March 31, 2015
Analysis, discussion, and assessment of those in America who do not attend or associate with churches based on recent Barna research.
The research covers the "churched" and the "churchless." Most of the "churchless" at one point was associated with a church; most still maintain some belief in God and a good number believe in Christianity. As the research shows well most are not very well trained in Christianity, its worldview or ethics, although the same was true for many who associate with churches.
And then there are the sobering realities in the research. Proportionally most of the churchless are among the youth (Mosaics / Millennials); many are quite aware of the existence of the church but see no need to be a part of it. Relying on mass media approaches will not be very effective with those not associated with churches; then again, the smallest percentage ever polled would look to begin connecting with a church at its assembly. Service, personal contact, etc., are proving to be more likely entry points for the "churchless."
The problems are daunting; institutional loyalties are quite low and skepticism of institutions are quite high. Our culture's elevation of the individual and individualism has meant a corrosion in community and even the perceived need for community. One may want to condemn younger generations for "selfishness," but what if they look at church, ask, "is this worth my time?", and have no reason to say "yes"? Why should it be surprising in such circumstances, if they can find more productive and encouraging uses of their time, that they would not pursue them?
This book is a good clarion call for Christians to live the Christian faith, give people reasons to believe in Jesus and not reasons to stay away, to strive to be better known for what they are for and less about what they are against, and proclaim Christianity as a the challenging character trial it is supposed to be and not just another entertainment option to consume.
The research covers the "churched" and the "churchless." Most of the "churchless" at one point was associated with a church; most still maintain some belief in God and a good number believe in Christianity. As the research shows well most are not very well trained in Christianity, its worldview or ethics, although the same was true for many who associate with churches.
And then there are the sobering realities in the research. Proportionally most of the churchless are among the youth (Mosaics / Millennials); many are quite aware of the existence of the church but see no need to be a part of it. Relying on mass media approaches will not be very effective with those not associated with churches; then again, the smallest percentage ever polled would look to begin connecting with a church at its assembly. Service, personal contact, etc., are proving to be more likely entry points for the "churchless."
The problems are daunting; institutional loyalties are quite low and skepticism of institutions are quite high. Our culture's elevation of the individual and individualism has meant a corrosion in community and even the perceived need for community. One may want to condemn younger generations for "selfishness," but what if they look at church, ask, "is this worth my time?", and have no reason to say "yes"? Why should it be surprising in such circumstances, if they can find more productive and encouraging uses of their time, that they would not pursue them?
This book is a good clarion call for Christians to live the Christian faith, give people reasons to believe in Jesus and not reasons to stay away, to strive to be better known for what they are for and less about what they are against, and proclaim Christianity as a the challenging character trial it is supposed to be and not just another entertainment option to consume.
November 5, 2014
Churchless written by Barna Group, is not a book intended for the masses. Honestly, outside of Christian circles, a reader would be mystified by this particular title. Editors George Barna and David Kinnaman have provided an amazing piece of research for churches and for the Christian who have noticed the culture shift in our country. Quite frankly, it is hard to miss! Churchless offers insight into our nation and why church is no longer a priority even for those who claim to know Christ.
I think one of the most striking descriptions in this book is that of the "actively churched." According to Churchless, actively churched can be defined as those who attend church once a month. This truly shocked my socks off! Maybe I am old-fashioned, but to think that the most devoted to the church attend so little is a discouraging thought.
According to Churchless, 1 in 6 "unchurched" Americans is a born-again Christian, totaling 18 million people. If all of them came to church on a Sunday, it would be the equivalent of adding 50 people to each of the 320,000 Protestant churches in the United States! I am guessing most churches haven't seen that many first-time guests in a long time. There are many more golden nuggets of information in this book that make it a must read for churches and Christians. The best of which is a detailed list of what does and does not work in attracting the "churchless" to your church backed up by researched data.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher, Tyndale House in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I have not been compensated.
I think one of the most striking descriptions in this book is that of the "actively churched." According to Churchless, actively churched can be defined as those who attend church once a month. This truly shocked my socks off! Maybe I am old-fashioned, but to think that the most devoted to the church attend so little is a discouraging thought.
According to Churchless, 1 in 6 "unchurched" Americans is a born-again Christian, totaling 18 million people. If all of them came to church on a Sunday, it would be the equivalent of adding 50 people to each of the 320,000 Protestant churches in the United States! I am guessing most churches haven't seen that many first-time guests in a long time. There are many more golden nuggets of information in this book that make it a must read for churches and Christians. The best of which is a detailed list of what does and does not work in attracting the "churchless" to your church backed up by researched data.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by its publisher, Tyndale House in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I have not been compensated.
May 19, 2015
It's hard to read a whole book on statistics in general, because it can get a little redundant at times. That happened in Churchless, but the topic was so interesting to me that it helped me press through to the end. Now, the book at times was really hard for me to read, because it made me mad. I was mad at the statistics and how the church has not walked in her true identity and purpose on the earth. As someone who has been through ministry school and worked in churches for the majority of my life, it just hurt to read this. It made me realize how important it is that when people do come to church that they connect with God. They need to experience His love and presence within the service. And as church leaders we are the ones who need to make room for the Holy Spirit to move.
The two chapters that impacted me the most were chapter 11 - This is how we roll and chapter and 14 - why churches matter. In chapter 11 it was an eye opener how Christians and non Christians spend most of our time the same way. It made me sad, but made me realize how powerful our culture has an effect on our day to day lives. And of course 14 because it talked about bringing back God's presence into churches. The church needs to be a place where they can learn and experience God. When you come to a service and you feel and see God moving, it's far from being boring.
Overall the book is a good read for those who are in ministry or want to understand what is happening to our society with the church. It can be a little hard to get through some parts because it's a lot of information and statistics.
I received this book for free for my honest review.
The two chapters that impacted me the most were chapter 11 - This is how we roll and chapter and 14 - why churches matter. In chapter 11 it was an eye opener how Christians and non Christians spend most of our time the same way. It made me sad, but made me realize how powerful our culture has an effect on our day to day lives. And of course 14 because it talked about bringing back God's presence into churches. The church needs to be a place where they can learn and experience God. When you come to a service and you feel and see God moving, it's far from being boring.
Overall the book is a good read for those who are in ministry or want to understand what is happening to our society with the church. It can be a little hard to get through some parts because it's a lot of information and statistics.
I received this book for free for my honest review.
May 16, 2019
If we want to reach those who choose not to be a part of the church, we need to know how they think. George Barna and David Kinnaman of the Barna Group provide us with a wealth of surprising trends from two decades of interviews and analysis in their new book Churchless: Understanding today’s Unchurched and How To Connect With Them.
The number of unchurched adults in the U.S. has grown almost one-third larger in the last decade and so a book that helps us know how to connect, invite, and engage is timely and life giving. Churchless is quick to point out that “young adults have the highest levels of church avoidance and that they expect to contribute not just consume (as evident by their ability to create, edit, connect, and share their opinions online). The authors suggest, “If you consider how most churches deliver content – appointing one person as the authority and encouraging everyone else to sit (consume) quietly while he or she speaks – it is easy to see how that delivery system can come into conflict with changing cultural expectations.”
Even if you don’t agree with the suggested methodologies in the book, it would be wise for every elder, pastor and ministry leader to pay attention to the “cries” of the unchurched and ask the hard questions for God has called us to reach them with the Good News of the Gospel.
MORE HERE: http://bit.ly/1zc8q5Y
The number of unchurched adults in the U.S. has grown almost one-third larger in the last decade and so a book that helps us know how to connect, invite, and engage is timely and life giving. Churchless is quick to point out that “young adults have the highest levels of church avoidance and that they expect to contribute not just consume (as evident by their ability to create, edit, connect, and share their opinions online). The authors suggest, “If you consider how most churches deliver content – appointing one person as the authority and encouraging everyone else to sit (consume) quietly while he or she speaks – it is easy to see how that delivery system can come into conflict with changing cultural expectations.”
Even if you don’t agree with the suggested methodologies in the book, it would be wise for every elder, pastor and ministry leader to pay attention to the “cries” of the unchurched and ask the hard questions for God has called us to reach them with the Good News of the Gospel.
MORE HERE: http://bit.ly/1zc8q5Y
November 24, 2021
Sometimes a book review and my experiences connect, and that triggers a chain reaction of books to read. I’m in one of those chain reactions now. I started with Theory U which led to Bowling Alone which led to reading Churchless. The last connection will make more sense once I’ve done the review for Bowling Alone. However for now, I’ll share that in Bowling Alone much of the book is the research about how we as Americans are not joining and participating in clubs as much as we once were. There’s a bit of data about how this decline worked relative to churches, but during a church service I heard many more statistics about the challenges of churches in America. When I inquired, my pastor shared the data was from the Barna group – and that led me to their latest book Churchless.
Click here to read the full review
Click here to read the full review
January 7, 2015
I was incredibly intrigued by the idea behind Churchless when I first saw it on Netgalley (thanks for the copy to read and review!) as this is one of the things I feel called to do - help reach out to those who have been turned off by Christianity in some way. (Just as I was not so long ago!)
I really felt like this was one of those books that Church Staff need to read. It really spoke to me on a lot of levels, and just drove this passion deeper inside of me!
Churchless is packed full of statistics and surveys, which really spoke to me as well! I found it fascinating to be able to have those numbers right in front of me! (And it's rather heartbreaking in some instances!)
If you feel called to reach out to those burned by the church, or find yourself in a ministry leadership role? I think Churchless is a MUST READ!
I really felt like this was one of those books that Church Staff need to read. It really spoke to me on a lot of levels, and just drove this passion deeper inside of me!
Churchless is packed full of statistics and surveys, which really spoke to me as well! I found it fascinating to be able to have those numbers right in front of me! (And it's rather heartbreaking in some instances!)
If you feel called to reach out to those burned by the church, or find yourself in a ministry leadership role? I think Churchless is a MUST READ!
February 11, 2016
I really enjoyed this book a lot. I tend to readily soak up research like this. Having read UnChristian, You Lost Me, and a countless research reports that Barna has put out on this subject; there was little information that was new in the subject. However, I did see this book as sort of an update from the You Lost Me book. While this book did included some overlap from You Lost Me, it also extended the conversation to include all "seekers" in general. I especially enjoyed the findings on those who are resistant to church and why. There are many helpful insights that I plan to experiment with over the next few years. In all this was a very valuable resource. Thank you Barna team!
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