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Recent Study Shows That Only 18% of Kids Leave the Faith When They Graduate

For years, we’ve heard the stat that 80-85% of kids walk away from church when they graduate from high school.  Are you like me?  I’ve always thought that sounded way to high.

If you thought it sounded too high as well, you are right.  A recent study shows that the percentage of kids who walk away from church is actually much lower.  The report from Pew Research shows that the percentage is only 18%. 

This is much more in line with what I’ve seen over the years. Yes, there have been some who have strayed, but a high percentage of kids that I’ve seen grow up still love Jesus and are serving Him.  In fact, many of them are even in ministry.

Last week I went back to visit a church I served at years ago.  The kids who were in elementary school when I was there are grown now.  It was wonderful to see so many of them still in church.  A great example is Christina and Jamie.  They are sisters who were in our children’s ministry.  We were able to meet them and their mother for lunch.  It was awesome to hear how God is still working in their lives.

What are your thoughts on this subject?  What has your experience been?  Do you think the 80-85% drop out rate is inaccurate?  Would enjoy hearing your thoughts in the comment section below.