Back to church research study reveals three groups of people
In May, the American Church Group partnered with Springtide Research and The Parable Group to conduct a nationwide study on how church members, lay leaders and staff are feeling about going back. A survey, conducted by Springtide Research Instatute, is an effort to determine how people are feeling regarding COVID-19 stay-at-home measures and disinfection practices, and how they are approaching returning to church in person.
More 1,800 individuals responded, which was about three times the initial expectation. People shared their thoughts about their goals, thoughts, needs, feelings, pain points, and actions during this uncertain time. Specifically, researchers asked them to answer questions related to their health and welfare, how they prefer the experience and format of services to be, their general attitude and temperament regarding COVID-19 regulations, and how they are engaging with their relationships.
The researchers were able to see three groups that naturally formed within the survey. The research team was able to give you some characteristics of each group, and things to consider to help them feel comfortable as we move forward.
Of the sample, 69% were active church members, 19% were unpaid lay leaders, and only 8% were paid staff or pastors. A majority of the population indicated that they were uncertain and cautious about returning to in-person services. The descriptions outlined in this report highlight the characteristics and actions of the three main groups that emerged from this study and the actions that church leaders could take to respond to each group.
Here are the three groups (read the study for info on how to effectively cater to each group and their unique needs):
- Abiding Attenders: Not concerned about adhering to social distancing, and just want to get back to “normal”.
- Hesitant Debaters (largest group): People in the middle, who are uncertain about the right things to do.
- Adaptable Adherents: More concerned about following regulations, and less likely to engage socially.
