We Are Not Reaching The Nones

Recent studies announce that a sizable group of Americans declare themselves to have no religion. They are known as the "Nones".  The real challenge to Christianity in the U.S. comes not from other religions, but rather from a rejection of all forms of organized religion. The American Religious Identification Survey, 2008 suggests that historic mainline churches and denominations are declining. They are not reaching the new generation. In turn, non-denominational identity is trending upward. 

Following are quotes from researchers at Trinity College about the Religious ID Survey.

American Nones: The Profile. 

In terms of self-identification or belonging, 1 in 6 Americans is of no religion (none), while in terms of belief and behavior the ratio is higher, around 1 in 4! 24% of current Nones (and 35% of 1st generation or "new" Nones) are former Catholics. The ethnic/racial profile of Nones shows Asians, Irish and Jews are the most secularized ethnic origin groups. 1/3 of the Nones claim Irish ancestry. . . 

As it has grown larger, the no religion or None population is no longer a fringe group and the “None” choice in terms of (ir)religious identification is now attracting wide swaths of Middle  America. As a result Nones are coming to resemble the U.S. general population in terms of their marital status, educational attainment, racial/ethnic makeup, and income. Yet compared to the  general U.S. population they are still disproportionately male, younger, and more likely to be  Westerners and political independents. . .  

American Nones embrace philosophical and theological beliefs that reflect skepticism rather than overt antagonism toward religion. In their commitment to reason and science they also continue the tradition of the late 18th Century American Enlightenment. Such views and opinions echo those held by many of the founding fathers and leaders of the American Revolution such as Franklin, Jefferson, and Paine. . . 

In many ways, Nones are the invisible minority in the U.S. today —invisible because their social characteristics are very similar to the majority. Intriguingly, what this suggests is that the transition from a largely religious population to a more secular population may be so subtle that it can occur under the radar as happened during the 1990s. In the future we can expect more American Nones given that 22% of the youngest cohort of adults self-identify as Nones and they will become tomorrow’s parents. If current trends continue and cohorts of non-religious young people replace older religious people, the likely outcome is that in two decades the Nones could account for around one-quarter of the American population. 

One response by Christians to this phenomenon is the growth of the non-denominational churches. Historically, of course, this is not a new phenomenon. As long as Christians have existed there have been those who differed with the teachings, practices and government of the established churches. The Protestant movement of the sixteenth century is a prime example. Today's non-denominational churches reject ecclesiastical authority beyond the local congregation, declaring themselves independent. They will not be told what to teach, even when they veer from traditional teachings. They want simply to be known as "Christians"who teach from the Bible.

Many local denominational churches, recognizing this trend, have adjusted their worship and teaching ministries to accomodate the needs and interests of this population. Starting in the 1960s, a large number of such churches have abandoned the traditional organ in favor of bands that play contemporary music in informal worship settings, with a strong emphasis upon the use of electronic media.  There is also a renewed interest in charismatic gifts and outreach through a wide variety of music, sports and teaching opportunities. These approaches often attract large numbers of young adults. One question remains, however. Are these approaches leading young men and women to be disciples of Jesus? And are they growing in their discipleship?

In my next post I will share some personal observations and suggestions based upon these words of our Lord Jesus:

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. I and the Father are one." - Jhn 10:27-30 ESV