Date: June 5, 2024
As we noted earlier this week, a focus area for the TryTank Institute is young adult families. We began by asking an important question: What happens to faith transmission when non-religious people (“nones”) have children? Our first study sheds light on the future of faith. Commissioned in October 2023, the study, in partnership with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the Presbyterian Church USA, will explore how these parents approach spirituality and religious upbringing.
The survey findings reveal significant challenges and opportunities. Nearly a quarter of the non-religious strongly opposed the idea of attending church for their children’s spiritual development, and more than half considered it “not important at all” whether their children have a faith as adults, indicating a clear rejection of institutionalized faith. Furthermore, the survey highlighted that religion and spirituality are low priorities for these parents, who value career and financial stability. Interestingly, 33% of young people felt that life was more difficult than they expected, yet faith was not seen as a solution.
As our research advisor, Dr. Josh Packard, puts it, “non-religious people aren’t interested in their children’s faith or spiritual lives. This presents a real opportunity for churches to help address a fundamental human need.”
The survey findings report can be found here. We plan to continue this research to further contribute and understand this important group.
Pastor Lorenzo Lebrija, DMin, MBA
Chief Innovation Officer, VTS
Executive Director, Tritank Research Institute
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