Rainer on Leadership

The Church Number: From 137 to 60 The Shrinking Median Church in America (2000–2023)

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Since 2000, one of the most reliable sources of data on congregations in America has been the Faith Communities Today study, often referred to as FACT. It’s been conducted every five years, with the most recent survey in 2023 representing tens of thousands of congregations across every major faith tradition.

The FACT research gives us a clear picture of what the ‘typical’ church looks like over time. And here’s one of the most striking trends: in 2000, the median church in America had 137 people in attendance at weekly worship services. By 2023, that number had dropped to just 60. Today, Sam and Thom will talk about what that shift means for pastors, leaders, and the future of congregations.

Resources:
  • Rooted
    • Upward Sports
      • Upward Running
        • FACT 2023 Summary Reports
          • “The Surprising Return of the Neighborhood Church: Discover How Your Church Is Primed to Reach Your Neighbors” by Sam Rainer (affiliate link)
            • Church Answers Platinum Membership
              • FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights
                • The Hope Initiative
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                  • The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
                    • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
                    • A sustainable way to launch groups
                    • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
                    • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
                    • Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

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                      Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

                      • Offer a 5K Challenge for adults at your church (engage your adults in 2026): Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:
                        • Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
                        • Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
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                        • Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
                        • Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
                        • Upward Sports is ready to help you start this at your church: Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

                          • The post The Church Number: From 137 to 60 The Shrinking Median Church in America (2000–2023) appeared first on Church Answers.

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                          Rainer on LeadershipBy Thom Rainer
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