Churches fight to stay open as attendance dwindles
abcnews.go.com
Churches faced with empty pews are fighting to keep their doors open, while former houses of worship are being converted into bars, clubs and luxury condos.

Summary

Churches across the U.S. are grappling with dwindling attendance and financial instability, forcing many to close or sell properties.

The Diocese of Buffalo has shut down 100 parishes since the 2000s and plans to close 70 more. Nationwide, church membership has dropped from 80% in the 1940s to 45% today.

Some churches repurpose their land to survive, like Atlanta’s First United Methodist Church, which is building affordable housing.

Others, like Calcium Church in New York, make cutbacks to stay open. Leaders warn of the long-term risks of declining community and support for churches.

  • otp
    2·
    6 days ago

    I realize how much religion plays a role in keeping idiots in line. It just needs continued updating for modern times.

    I agree completely. And it seems like it continues to be used that way, but not for good – it tends to get idiots to fall in line with fascists. Not all the time, but in many parts of the world, this seems to be what’s happening.