Gender Gap in Church Attendance Reverses After Decades
For the first time in over two decades, men attend church more frequently than women, according to Barna’s State of the Church 2025 report. The shift began in 2022 and continues into 2024, with 30% of men attending weekly compared to 27% of women. This reverses a trend that had women leading attendance rates since 2000.
Barna researchers urge church leaders to reevaluate how they engage women. “Women, once more engaged, are now wavering,” they stated. While no single cause explains the change, potential factors include rising responsibilities for women at home and work, the impact of the pandemic, discouraging dating prospects at church, and disillusionment following scandals involving ministry leaders.
Church Volunteerism Surges, Led by Younger Generations
Weekly volunteerism in churches has surpassed pre-pandemic levels. In 2024, 24% of U.S. adults reported volunteering weekly, compared to 18% in 2019. Gen Z and Millennials lead the charge, with 21% and 19% volunteering weekly, respectively. In contrast, only 9% of Boomers and 12% of Elders participate at the same rate.
Researchers suggest that younger adults, motivated by causes and flexible schedules, contribute time and energy. Churches’ established volunteer programs and visible community impacts also appeal to this group. However, the trend also highlights a notable decline in engagement among older generations.
Most Americans Still View Church as Relevant
Despite cultural shifts, 65% of U.S. adults believe church remains relevant. This includes 88% of practicing Christians, 67% of non-practicing Christians, and 46% of non-Christians. Researchers suggest that relevance is closely tied to personal benefit, including community, purpose, and spiritual growth.
Supporters argue that meaningful relationships and transcendent experiences keep the church vital. Detractors, however, cite past negative experiences, alternative communities, and access to diverse spiritual content online as reasons for disengagement.
Spiritual Connection Still Drives Church Meaningfulness
Christians cited spiritual encounters as the core reason church remains meaningful. Connecting to God, experiencing the Holy Spirit, and growing closer to Jesus ranked highest. Other valued aspects include shared prayer, emotional support, and sermons. Financial giving and discipleship ranked lowest.
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State of the Church: More men attending than women, volunteering rebounding
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