A new survey by Lifeway Research reveals that even the most dedicated weekly Protestant churchgoers are willing to miss Sunday worship services for reasons like bad weather, extra sleep, and leisure activities.
The study polled over 1,000 Protestant churchgoers who attend Sunday services at least monthly. When asked how often they would skip Sunday church for various scenarios, only 11% said they would never miss for any reason. While devotion runs deep, the data shows even stalwart Sunday attendees choose other weekend priorities periodically.
Inclement Sunday weather was the top excuse churchgoers gave, with 77% admitting they would skip during severe events like snow, ice or tornado warnings. As one pastor noted, “Sometimes churchgoers decide it’s safer to skip the Sunday journey and avoid slick roads.”
But nice Sunday weather lures people away too – over half said they would also miss Sunday church to enjoy good weekend weather outdoors. Younger adults were especially likely to skip Sunday services for outdoor weekend activities and extra sleep, while older churchgoers said they would rarely miss.
The survey found denominational differences as well. Methodists and Restorationist churchgoers were most likely to skip Sunday services for all the reasons given. Presbyterians, on the other hand, were the least likely to stay home on Sundays.
Churchgoers are not on autopilot. Each week they make a choice, and there are Sunday tradeoffs.
Scott McConnell
Scott McConnell, the lead researcher, said: “Churchgoers are not on autopilot. Each week they make a choice, and there are Sunday tradeoffs.”
While many churches record lower Sunday attendance numbers when weather is an issue, other factors are pulling people away too. Sleeping in on Sunday morning enticed over half of churchgoers surveyed. And 50% admitted they had skipped Sunday services just to meet up with friends.
Infrequent Sunday attendees who only go 1-3 times per month are more likely to choose other Sunday activities over church. But the survey shows even devoted, frequent Sunday attendees are susceptible to skipping if the weather cooperates or other Sunday plans arise.
In the end, the vast majority still see Sunday worship as a priority they won’t abandon regularly. But the data makes it clear that conflicting Sunday schedules and enticing alternatives are enough to keep even stalwart churchgoers home on Sunday morning now and then.
The findings present both challenges and opportunities for Protestant church leaders seeking to boost Sunday engagement and attendance. While weather can’t be controlled, some are considering shifting Sunday service times to better accommodate sleepy schedules. Others are adding more Sunday social activities to connect members outside of church.
But the root issue remains a heart commitment to prioritizing Sunday worship. As another pastor commented, “In the end, it’s the Holy Spirit, not weather forecasts, that draw believers to glorify God together on Sundays.” Churches focused on spiritual growth may see more devotees unwilling to miss out on community worship and biblical teaching – no matter the weather outside.
The Lifeway survey makes it evident that conflicting priorities affect Protestant Sunday church attendance. But it also shows the vast majority still see weekly Sunday worship as a non-negotiable part of their Christian walk. Sundays may require more effort for some, but a passion for glorifying God alongside fellow believers continues calling Christians into the pews every Sunday.
Leave feedback about this