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Carey Nieuwhof

Church attendance is changing (and not how you think)


Hi Reader,

Is America in revival? The short answer is: not quite—but something significant is happening.

Today’s podcast episode marks Part 2 of my 2026 Church Trends series, and I sat down in studio with my good friend David Kinnaman, CEO of Barna, to dig into the data behind the headlines.

What we’re seeing is both sobering and hopeful.

Christian identity in the U.S. has declined over the past 25 years—but at the same time, spiritual openness is rising, especially openness to Jesus. Even more surprising? Gen Z churchgoers are attending more frequently than their parents and grandparents, and young men, in particular, are re-engaging with faith at levels few of us expected.

At the same time, David and I talk candidly about the caution church leaders need right now. Revival headlines can be misleading. The opportunity is real, but it’s uneven, complex, and demands thoughtful leadership.

If you’re leading a church, this conversation will help you move past wishful thinking and toward wise action. We talk about what the data really says, what leaders often miss, and how to steward this moment well—without overreacting or underestimating what God may be doing.

I think this one will stretch your thinking and sharpen your leadership.

🎧 Listen now and take the next step toward healthier leadership. Watch it on YouTube or tune in wherever you listen to podcasts.

This episode is brought to you by...

VisitorReach

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Show Notes

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Carey Nieuwhof Communications, PO Box 160, Oro Medonte, Ontario L0L 2X0

Carey Nieuwhof

Don’t settle for an impact smaller than you’re called to make. It's time to unlock your potential and lead confidently into a future filled with growth — for yourself, your church, and your mission. Get access to some of my best leadership content, only published in my newsletters.

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