It’s not often that we get to share good news about church attendance trends—but this time, the numbers might surprise you. On Episode 495 of the Church Solutions Podcast, hosts Phil Thompson and Steve Lacy dove into a new and encouraging development: younger generations—Gen Z and Millennials—are attending church more frequently than any other age group.
A Generational Reversal
For decades, data has shown a steady decline in church attendance across the U.S. But recent studies from Barna Group and Gloo reveal a surprising reversal:
- Gen Z (born 1997–2012) and Millennials (born 1981–1996) now top all other generations in church attendance frequency.
- Gen Z averages 1.9 weekends per month, just shy of twice a month.
- Millennials follow closely behind at 1.8 weekends per month.
- Older generations, including Boomers and Elders, average 1.4 times per month, a drop from the early 2000s.
“It’s really weird because you go to many churches and still see a lot of gray hair or no hair at all,” Phil noted. “But these stats show something new is happening.”
What’s Driving the Shift?
The reasons behind this trend aren’t fully understood, but several factors seem to play a role:
1. Post-Pandemic Isolation
After COVID-19 and widespread social unrest, many people—especially young adults—are searching for community, belonging, and stability. Churches, even imperfect ones, offer that.
2. The Need for Purpose
Younger men, in particular, are seeking structure and meaning. Steve pointed out that men are now outpacing women in weekly church attendance—46% compared to 40%. That’s a remarkable change from historical patterns.
3. Rediscovering Community
Phil reflected on his own experience after decades in church leadership:
“When I stepped back from being on staff, I realized how much I missed the community—the relationships, the sense of belonging.”
Many in Gen Z are looking for that same connection and finding it in local churches.
Lessons for Church Leaders
If your church wants to reach this new wave of young attenders, it’s time to pay attention to what matters most to them.
1. Strong Digital Presence
Gen Z is the most digitally native generation in history. Over 70% check out a church online before ever visiting.
Your website and live stream are your new front doors. Make sure they’re authentic, current, and mobile-friendly.
2. Accessible, Ongoing Engagement
This generation doesn’t see online church as “second best.” They expect their spiritual experience to travel with them—through apps, podcasts, devotionals, and digital community spaces.
As Steve put it:
“They expect the church in their pocket.”
Tools like DailyDive365.com help bridge that gap by delivering daily devotions and message-based reflections directly from a church’s Sunday sermon.
3. Opportunities to Belong and Serve
Gen Z wants community, connection, and contribution. They’re drawn to small groups, prayer communities, and ways to serve both online and offline. Make it easy for them to find their place and purpose.
Moving Forward
This isn’t just a statistical blip—it’s an opportunity. Younger generations are reconsidering faith and community in new ways. As Phil encouraged,
“Keep your eyes open. There are people out there—especially in the younger generation—who are searching. Be ready to meet them where they are.”
If your church is willing to adapt, listen, and engage authentically, you may find that Gen Z isn’t walking away from faith—they’re walking back in.
Listen to the full episode:
🎧 Church Solutions Podcast – Episode 495
Hosted by StreamingChurch.tv and DailyDive365.com