Gallup reports that most Americans (56%) seldom or never attend religious services.
Only three in 10 people in the US say they attend religious services every week or almost every week.
Recent stats show Christian followership and church attendance are down nationwide, and right here in Louisiana, a 2024 Axios report found 37% of Louisianans rarely or never attend church, a major indicator of declining engagement.
Dr. Tom Ryan, director and professor at the Loyola Institute of Ministry, says religious participation has always been influenced by what’s happening in the broader world, even if it doesn’t follow a perfect cycle.
“Historically, people tend to retreat during peaceful times,” Ryan said. “But during moments of crisis like war, famine, civil rights unrest, and most recently COVID, people often find their way back to faith communities.”
Ryan says modern life has also reshaped how people search for meaning, with many choosing spiritual exploration outside of organized religion.
“Modernity absolutely plays a role,” he said. “People are on very personal journeys now, and for some, that journey doesn’t immediately include church.”
One of the biggest challenges facing churches today, according to Ryan, is keeping younger generations engaged.
“The biggest piece is youth engagement,” he said. “Churches have to find ways to meet the needs of younger members where they are, not just expect them to show up.”
Ryan says younger people often seek connection, purpose, and authenticity; values churches can still offer if they are willing to adapt without losing their core identity.
“It’s not about abandoning tradition,” Ryan explained. “It’s about translating it in ways that speak to the realities people are living in right now.”
Despite the broader downward trend, Ryan points to very recent data showing a modest uptick in church participation, suggesting the story may still be evolving.
“With so much happening in the world, it will be interesting to see how these trends continue to change,” he said.
For Ryan, the moment presents less of a warning and more of an opportunity.
“Faith has always responded to the human condition,” he said. “And the human condition is asking a lot of questions right now.”