December 2014 – The September National Congregations Study observed growing trends in America’s religious congregations: ethnic diversity, acceptance of gays and lesbians, informal worship styles, declining size and declining denominational affiliation. Those surveyed responded with specific remarks about the congregations they attended, as follows. (All statistics show at least a 5 to 10% change since the survey was last conducted in 2006.)
19.7% say no single ethnic group makes up at least 80% of their congregation. 11% attend an all white congregation. 40% hear a choir at their service. 24% say their congregation is not formally affiliated with any denomination. 48% say their church leaders allow gays and lesbians as full-fledged members. 26.4% say volunteer leadership positions in their church are open to gays and lesbians. 23.5% attend a white conservative church that accepts gay and lesbian members.
