Church closings are on the rise in America

 

 

PP Cherian

Boston: Church closures are on the rise in America. It is estimated that approximately 15,000 churches in the United States will close by 2025. This is much more than the number of newly opened mosques. Experts suggest that up to 100,000 mosques may be closed in the coming years.

According to data from the Pew Research Center, the number of Americans who identify with Christianity has fallen from 78 percent in 2007 to 62 percent today. It is also recorded that 29% people do not believe in any religion. Protestant denominations such as Methodist, Presbyterian, Lutheran etc. are declining the fastest.

But, on the other hand, evangelical non-denominational megachurches are growing. This is due to the influence of charismatic leaders, use of social media and political connections. These opposing trends are critical indicators of religious change in America.