Introduction
Christians pray during a stop on the “Decision America” tour at the fairgrounds in Turlock, Calif., in May. In the weeks leading up to California's June primary, the tour, led by the Rev. Franklin Graham, aimed to encourage evangelical voters to go to the polls. Experts say evangelicalism remains strong but that the movement's conservative policy positions have cost it support among some young people. (Cover: Getty Images/Justin Sullivan)
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An increasing number of Americans describe themselves as spiritual but not religious, and while 89 percent profess belief in God, many Roman Catholic, mainline Protestant and evangelical churches are losing members. Among Catholics, polls show that disagreements over church teachings, along with the effects of clergy sexual misconduct, have led many to leave the church. Protestant churches, meanwhile, have struggled with their own scandals and problems, including the disillusionment of many young adults. Some experts speculate that American Christianity is shifting toward a European model, in which many profess to be Christian but attend church only occasionally. As religious trends shift, experts debate their long-term implications. Some note that despite declines in older denominations, many newer churches — including so-called megachurches that draw thousands of attendees — are thriving. To attract members, especially teens and young adults, some churches are making services more contemporary and emphasizing social and environmental messages.
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Oct. 28, 2022 |
Church and State |
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May 29, 2020 |
Christians in the Mideast |
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Sep. 28, 2018 |
Christianity in America |
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Jun. 23, 2017 |
Future of the Christian Right |
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Jun. 07, 2013 |
Future of the Catholic Church |
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Jan. 2011 |
Crisis in the Catholic Church |
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Sep. 21, 2007 |
Rise of Megachurches |
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Sep. 14, 2001 |
Evangelical Christians |
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Feb. 26, 1999 |
Future of the Papacy |
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Dec. 11, 1998 |
Searching for Jesus |
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Jul. 22, 1988 |
The Revival of Religion in America |
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Dec. 02, 1983 |
Christmas Customs and Origins |
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Jun. 10, 1983 |
Martin Luther After 500 Years |
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Aug. 08, 1975 |
Year of Religion |
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Jul. 26, 1972 |
Fundamentalist Revival |
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Jan. 04, 1967 |
Religion in Upheaval |
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Aug. 03, 1966 |
Religious Rivalries in South Viet Nam |
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Nov. 11, 1964 |
Church Tax Exemption |
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Aug. 05, 1964 |
Catholic Schools |
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Oct. 14, 1963 |
Churches and Social Action |
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Jun. 19, 1963 |
Vatican Policy in a Revolutionary World |
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Jan. 05, 1962 |
Rome and Christian Unity |
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Mar. 26, 1958 |
Church-Related Education |
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Dec. 18, 1957 |
Church Consolidation |
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Jun. 05, 1957 |
Evangelism in America |
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Jun. 23, 1955 |
Religious Boom |
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Aug. 13, 1952 |
Church Unity in America |
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Feb. 12, 1947 |
Relations with the Vatican |
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Dec. 21, 1923 |
The New Schism in the Church and the Immaculate Conception |
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