Archive

A Year Out: How COVID-19 Has Impacted Practicing Christians

Over the past 12 months, America has witnessed the sobering effects of COVID-19 on every aspect of life. This article looks back at Barna research showing the year’s impact on levels of anxiety, life milestones and hope for the future among Americans, with a specific focus on practicing Christians.

Half of Gen Z Feel Bad About the Amount of Time Spent on Screens

Screens are everywhere. Whether at work, school or home, no generation is exempt from tech's influence in this digital age, especially as society moves further into a COVID-shaped reality that has necessitated an even greater dependence on devices. While utilizing technology and media has its benefits, turning to devices too often can have harmful repercussions as well—and recent Barna data show that at least the younger generations (namely, Gen Z) are speaking up about their ambivalent relationship with technology.

For Black Americans, the Black Church Counters Feelings of Political Powerlessness

In a week that includes both the national observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday and the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, we're releasing a first glimpse into Barna's research from the State of the Black Church project. Today's article examines the political posture of the Black Church, as well as the Black community’s perceptions of its influence.

The State of the Black Church: A Q&A About Church Engagement & Politics

Year in Review: Barna’s Top 10 Releases of 2020

To close out 2020, here are Barna’s 10 most-visited releases from the year. The stories are a reflection of what our nation and the Church has walked through over the past 365 days, covering somber findings, stark divides, moments of healing and glimmers of hope for the coming year.

Alpha USA on the Promise of Digital Evangelism Environments

Guest Column: Amy Crouch's 3 Tips for Turning Boredom into Wonder

Technology Promises Connection, but Gen Z Sees a Paradox

The information revolution has transformed the way everyone lives—but especially the youngest generations. Recent Barna data show that the average American teen receives their first smartphone at around 12 to 13 years of age and their first tablet around age 11. The U.S. childhood and adolescent experience is mediated by screens, both in and outside the home. In light of this, how should teens and their families respond to the new force shaping their lives? 

3 Things Church Leaders Must Know as They Navigate Election Season

As the U.S. presidential election looms, pastors might wonder how to lead well during this time of increased tension. If our data on the tug-of-war for their engagement is any indication, they likely feel there is no way to win with all of their congregants. Today’s article offers three research insights to help pastors understand the current climate and thoughtfully guide their church through this divided moment.

Is It Possible to Balance Work, Family and Love?

Recent Barna data collected on working couple in America show that the majority of American working couples believe they can maintain their individual careers and still come together to raise a healthy family, all while staying in love. But what does it actually take to make this dream a reality? Today's article takes a look at how U.S. adults and practicing Christians respond to this question.

White Christians Have Become Even Less Motivated to Address Racial Injustice

One might assume that the events of 2020 have increased awareness of racial injustice in the United States and motivation to address it. But the story isn’t so straightforward, new Barna research (conducted in partnership with Dynata) suggests. Yes, there are signs the past year has clarified how Americans think about racial injustice—but that doesn’t mean they see the issue, or their role within it, with greater urgency. In the Church especially, there is a sense that people are doubling down on divides.

COVID-19 Conversations: Derwin Gray and Darryn Scheske on Race and Reopening

National conversations this summer have largely remained focused on racial tensions in the U.S. and the increase of COVID-19 cases across the country. In a recent ChurchPulse Weekly episode, hosts Carey Nieuwhof and David Kinnaman sit down with pastors Derwin Gray (Transformation Church in Charlotte, NC) and Darryn Scheske (Heartland Church in Indianapolis, IN) to discuss issues of race and faith as well as their plans for keeping their churches closed for in-person worship during this season of disruption.

87 Percent of Practicing Christians See the U.S. as a Leader to the World

While the Fourth of July offers a time for the U.S. to celebrate the Declaration of Independence, it also provides space for us to look back on our country’s history—the good and the bad—to shape the lens with which we envision its future. Recent Barna data might deepen this crucial reflection during a season of disruption and change in the nation.

COVID-19 Conversations: Pastors Share on Family Time and Reopening Church

In this week’s ChurchPulse Weekly episode, podcast hosts Carey Nieuwhof and David Kinnaman chat with Jennie and Levi Lusko about addressing racial justice from the pulpit and as a family, how the current moment provides churches and families the chance to reboot and keeping the church doors closed even after being permitted to reopen.

Black Practicing Christians Are Twice as Likely as Their White Peers to See a Race Problem

Over the last few weeks in the United States, the Black community and its allies have spoken out against the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery. Powerful and at times contentious protests have taken place in every state and even other nations to call attention to racial inequality and police violence. Though the reach of these demonstrations and related actions are unprecedented, the divides they expose are not new.

Common Ground, Hard Truths & Next Steps: A Panel on Racial Justice

Church Leaders Share on Welcoming Congregants Back for In-Person Worship

As the United States begins to reopen cities one phase at a time, church leaders are facing a new challenge which poses many questions, including should we reopen, and if so, how? While an ease of social distancing guidelines in certain areas allows congregants to once again gather for worship in their usual church building, are people ready to come back for Sunday services?

How Research Can Help Us to See Someone Else’s Point of View