https://youtu.be/hRbbA1zo1QU

In this conversation, Jess and Thom discuss the fleeting nature of digital influence. Algorithms shift, platforms fade, and online visibility is temporary. What happens when your church—or your ministry—disappears from the feed? This episode explores how to build something lasting in a world designed to forget.



* Digital Decay: Why every online platform eventually buries even the best content.
* Presence Over Platform: How personal relationships still outlast digital reach.
* Legacy Leadership: Building ministries that endure beyond algorithms and branding trends.
* The Return to Analog: Why the most future-proof ministry may look a lot like the first-century church.



Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Running


* “The Revival of the Analog World” by Thom S. Rainer - coming soon!


* “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation -- and Why It's Not Late” by Thom S. Rainer and Jess W. Rainer - coming soon!


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

Offer a 5K Challenge for adults at your church (engage your adults in 2026): Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:

Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
A fully customizable program that fits your church's timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.


Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
Upward Sports is ready to help you start this at your church: Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

https://youtu.be/P6lmplUFGs0

Thom and Jess tackle the growing challenge of polarization inside and outside the church. As cultural extremes grow louder, pastors often find themselves without a safe “middle ground.” How can church leaders stay faithful, gracious, and clear in such an environment?



* The Vanishing Middle: Why neutrality no longer works in today’s polarized culture.
* Conviction Without Combustion: How to hold strong beliefs while leading with empathy.
* Discipleship Over Debate: Why spiritual formation must replace social-media formation.
* Rebuilding Trust: Ways pastors can model calm clarity in a chaotic world.



Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Running


* “The Anxious Generation Goes to Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

Offer a 5K Challenge for adults at your church (engage your adults in 2026): Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:

Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
A fully customizable program that fits your church's timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.


Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
Upward Sports is ready to help you start this at your church: Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

https://youtu.be/FT5ZrxI2DS8

Keith and Kristyn Getty recently released The Sing! Hymnal. This publication is a major development in worship music and hymnody. Jess and Thom speak with Keith Getty about its creation and importance. Here are some of the questions they asked him.



* The hymnal includes hundreds of liturgical readings and psalm pairings. Why was it important for you to add these elements alongside the music?
* Background stories accompany many hymns. How do these narratives enrich the way a congregation sings and understands these hymns?
* What would you tell pastors considering adding this hymnal to their churches?
* How can the hymnal be used beyond the Sunday morning worship experience?



Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Sports


* Why the New Hymnal from the Gettys Is So Important: An Interview with Keith Getty (Part 1)


* The Sing! Hymnal


* Getty Music


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it's basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.


A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Be the Neighborhood Church.

https://youtu.be/x9r5vOcXpvs

Keith and Kristyn Getty recently released The Sing! Hymnal. This publication is a major development in worship music and hymnody. Jess and Thom speak with Keith Getty about its creation and importance. Here are some of the questions they asked him.



* What has been happening with the Gettys other than the new hymnal?
* Why did you and Kristyn decide to create this hymnal? What was your central vision?
* A stated goal of the hymnal is to bridge generation gaps. Do you feel you accomplished that goal?
* With nearly 500 hymns included, what guiding principles determined which songs made it into the hymnal?



Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Sports


* Why the New Hymnal from the Gettys Is So Important: An Interview with Keith Getty (Part 2)


* The Sing! Hymnal


* Getty Music


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it's basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.


A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Be the Neighborhood Church. Want to create a welcoming space for families? Upward Sports provides a first-class, well-organized,

https://youtu.be/cvtwR39x0E0

Jess and Thom explore how the humble farmers market might hold surprising lessons for church life. In a world drawn to authenticity and community, what if the local church functioned more like a neighborhood market — relational, participatory, and grounded in place?
Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

https://youtu.be/lYHf66ybzBk

In this episode, Thom and Jess examine one of the more unusual findings from the 2023 Faith Communities Today (FACT) study. The survey reveals a noticeable gap in pastors aged 46 to 50. We’ll explore why this age bracket is underrepresented, what factors may have shaped this trend, and what it means for the future of pastoral leadership.
Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* FACT 2023 Summary Reports


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

https://youtu.be/xy3LIr-GzTc

In this episode, Thom discusses an encouraging statistic from the 2023 Faith Communities Today (FACT) study. Despite the challenges of shrinking attendance, financial strain, and cultural headwinds, nearly three out of four congregations still report a positive outlook on their future. What fuels this optimism, and what does it mean for church leaders?
Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Sports


* FACT 2023 Summary Reports


* Ryan Burge


* “Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive" by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it's basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.


A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets ...

https://youtu.be/VVaVHq-G8MI

Thom talks with Mike Stadelmayer at Church Growth Services who offers some fascinating insights about churches and debt. There are definitely some surprises in this interview.
Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Sports


* Church Growth Services


* Check out this free eBook, “Church Debt, Striking a Balance Between Risk & Reward,” and learn more!


* Schedule a call with Mike Stadelmayer


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it's basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.


A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.

https://youtu.be/jOvAojoMdRs

Thom and Jess open a conversation from their revised book, “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation -- and Why It's Not Late.” This episode unpacks what happens when churches neglect reaching the Millennials.
Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation -- and Why It's Not Late” by Thom S. Rainer and Jess W. Rainer - coming soon!


* Know Your Community


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

https://youtu.be/1zpcgGoy7Ng

Thom and Jess draw from the introduction of their revised book, “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation -- and Why It's Not Late,” to set the stage for why Millennials matter. They highlight how this generation compares in size to others and why pastors must pay attention now.
Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation -- and Why It's Not Late” by Thom S. Rainer and Jess W. Rainer - coming soon!


* “The Anxious Generation Goes to Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)


* “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt (affiliate link)


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

https://youtu.be/oo_fYqoxTgA

In this episode, Thom looks at one of the surprising findings from the 2023 FACT (Faith Communities Today) study. The research shows that more than seven out of ten churches share their facilities with other organizations. Thom explores why so many churches are opening their doors, what kinds of groups they are hosting, and how this trend impacts both the church and the community.

This number comes from the 2023 Faith Communities Today (FACT) survey, one of the most comprehensive studies of U.S. congregations, conducted every five years since 2000. The 2023 survey included responses from over 15,000 congregations across denominations and traditions.

The FACT report notes that 70.5% of congregations share their buildings with other groups — including nonprofits, community organizations, government programs, and even other churches.
(Source: FACT 2023 Summary Reports; UCC FACT 2023 Release)
Resources:

Wesley Biblical Seminary


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* FACT 2023 Summary Reports


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


* Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.

* They offer certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.
* Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.


* Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
* Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
* Equipping men and women called by God.
* An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
* If you'd like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it's basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.


A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball,

https://youtu.be/33cpsxH8qWs

In this episode, Thom looks at new data from the 2023 FACT (Faith Communities Today) study. The research shows that churches with extensive online giving receive 34% more per attender than those with none. Thom unpacks what that number means for church leaders, why it matters, and how congregations can take practical steps to strengthen generosity in a digital age.

This number comes from the 2023 Faith Communities Today (FACT) survey, one of the most comprehensive studies of U.S. congregations, conducted every five years since 2000. FACT 2023 surveyed over 15,000 congregations across various denominations and faith traditions.



* Congregations with no online giving reported per capita giving of $1,809.
* Congregations with extensive online giving reported per capita giving of $2,428.
* That's about a 34% increase per attender.



Interpretation and insights have also been provided by the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving (Lake Institute, Insights 2023).
Resources:

Church Answers University


* Redemption Seminary


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* FACT 2023 Summary Reports


* Lake Institute on Faith & Giving


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


Get a diploma plus nine hours credit toward a Master’s degree at Redemption Seminary. Learn more today at https://churchanswers.com/diplomas/

 



The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it's basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.


A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April,

https://youtu.be/jGMQgfOLwYg

In this episode, Thom dives into a surprising and encouraging statistic from the 2023 FACT study—79% of church attenders say that church is “very important” in their lives. With so many articles and headlines announcing the decline of religion in America, this number offers a different perspective—one filled with hope, mission, and responsibility.

The data comes from “This Place Means Everything to Me: Key Findings from a National Survey of Church Attenders in Post-Pandemic United States” (2023 FACT study, published by the Hartford Institute for Religion Research). The study is one of the most comprehensive post-pandemic surveys of active churchgoers in the United States.
Resources:

Church Answers University


* Redemption Seminary


* Upward Running


* “This Place Means Everything to Me: Key Findings from a National Survey of Church Attenders in Post-Pandemic United States” (2023 FACT study, published by the Hartford Institute for Religion Research)


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


Get a diploma plus nine hours credit toward a Master’s degree at Redemption Seminary. Learn more today at https://churchanswers.com/diplomas/

 



Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

Offer a 5K Challenge: Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:

Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
A fully customizable program that fits your church's timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.


Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
Upward is Here for You: Ready to bring Upward Running to your church? Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

https://youtu.be/sYzoUkJIEJc

In this episode, Thom discusses a striking figure from the 2023 FACT (Faith Communities Today) study: 62% of churchgoers report attending weekly worship services. What does this number really tell us? Is it reliable? And how should pastors respond in a culture where attendance patterns are shifting?
Resources:

Church Answers University


* Redemption Seminary


* Upward Running


* FACT 2023 Summary Reports


* The Hope Initiative


* “Pray & Go: Your Invitation to Become a Great Commission Christian” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


Get a diploma plus nine hours credit toward a Master’s degree at Redemption Seminary. Learn more today at https://churchanswers.com/diplomas/

 



Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

Offer a 5K Challenge: Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:

Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
A fully customizable program that fits your church's timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.


Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
Upward is Here for You: Ready to bring Upward Running to your church? Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

https://youtu.be/lk7UMz4Zn9o

It has been several years since the pandemic, but its effects are still lasting. Thom and Jess explore how COVID-19 didn’t just disrupt church attendance for a season — it changed patterns for the long term. They discuss the lasting shifts and how churches can adapt.



* Fewer people attend weekly — even among the committed.
* Many attenders are rotating between churches.
* The “core” in many churches became more committed.
* Churches must not apologize for expecting committed attendance.



Resources:

Chaney & Associates


* The Church Advisory Podcast


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* The Hope Initiative


* Church Answers Membership


* FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:


Lead Your Church. We'll Handle the Numbers. 



We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
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Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 



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The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world's largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it's basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.


A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at Show more...