USA Today published an article that states 1 in 5 Americans select NONE for religious affiliation when surveyed. The article states- "Young people are
resistant to the authority of institutional religion, older people are turned
off by the politicization of religion, and people are simply less into theology
than ever before." Furthermore, "10% of American adults became NONES after growing up within a religious group."
What do you think is contributing to this lack of religious affiliation?
Why do you think those who grew up within a religious group are disassociating with that group as they age?
What do you think is contributing to this lack of religious affiliation?
Why do you think those who grew up within a religious group are disassociating with that group as they age?
I think some people grow lazy and forget what it is like to have a church family that supports and loves you.
ReplyDeleteOur society as a whole (at least in America it seems) has become much more permissive. Within mainstream socieity, many things that were once socially stigmatized are now relatively accepted (i.e. homosexuality, divorce, single parenthood, women's rights). However, many organized religions have maintained strict views on these subjects. Islam and Christianity are two primary examples. Thus, as people look at common (even if they are incorrect) stereotypes of religion, they can be turned off by what they see as instutionalized bigotry. While we must be cognizant of sin and seek to live pure lives, we also cannot drive others away. This is why I like being an Episcopalian. Our church appears willing to accept people and exmplify Gods love for all rather than focus on those things that separate us from God.
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