State of the Church

New Research on Church Attendance: Decline of Women or the Rise of Men?

Men are significantly outpacing women in church attendance since the pandemic, reversing a long-standing trend in Barna’s decades of tracking.

Christians Say Churches Could Benefit From Digital Tools

Ongoing Barna research reveals a strong majority of Christians say churches could benefit from using more digital tools.

(Re)introducing the Way of Jesus to Churchgoers

Data from Barna's Discipleship in Community study highlights significant generational differences in how Christians feel about following Jesus.

Fostering Relationships: A Key to Meaningful Church Engagement

The relational aspect of churchgoing is critical to sustaining church engagement—and most churchgoers seek relational connection at services.

New Research: Belief in Jesus Rises, Fueled by Younger Adults

Among the biggest drivers of belief in Jesus are the younger generations—particularly Gen Z and Millennials.

At a Glance: The Strengths and Struggles of Today’s Pastors

The health of a pastor greatly influences the health of a congregation, amplifying the importance of pastoral flourishing.

5 Opportunities To Better Support Pastors

Recent research reveals encouraging strengths—and areas for growth—when it comes to the health of today’s pastors.

New Barna Data: Young Adults Lead a Resurgence in Church Attendance

Millennials and Gen Z are driving a resurgence in church attendance. This shift signals a new opportunity for ministry.

Ex-Christians Aren’t the Only Ones Deconstructing Faith

Where do deconstructed ex-Christians go, when they leave?

Loneliness in Ministry: What Barna and Gloo’s State of the Church Data Reveals

Loneliness is not just a pandemic-era buzzword—it is a deep, structural challenge facing pastors and church leaders today.

What Is the State of the Church and Why Should You Care?

Barna partnered with Gloo on State of the Church 2025, emphasizing monthly data, human flourishing, and church thriving. Here's what church leaders need to know about this movement.