Butch's Blog

From the United Methodist State of the Church report: 76% of laity say private and public prayer is extremely important. 80% say regular worship is extremely important and 68% say lifelong study of the Bible and Christian teachings is extremely important. The clergy percentages are higher for all three statements.

When age (under 45) is added to the mix, the percentages drop in all three areas. Respondents 45 and under place even less emphasis on financial giving - 65% clergy, 60% laity. 57% of laity and 42% of clergy are "extremely hopeful" for the future of the denomination. Compare that to Africa where 88% are extremely hopeful and the Philippines (84%). 75% of clergy and 80% of laity agree that it is extremely important to attract more young people (aged 18 - 30) to the Church.

However, when it comes to taking specific steps to attract younger generations 33% of the laity agree that their local church is willing to change/add alternative worship options to attract young people. 20% of the clergy believe their local church is prepared to change or add worship options.

In 1985, 3402 full clergy members and 1645 probationary clergy members were under 35 years of age. In 2005 that number had dropped to 624 full members and 574 probationary members.

As a denomination we are getting older. That can only continue for a little while.