By Bob Smietana Jesus warned his followers to keep their good deeds secret, warning them not to seek attention when doing the right thing. American Christians seem to be following that advice. According to a new study from Nashville-based Lifeway Research, few Americans are aware of many efforts by local Christians or churches to serve their neighbors. Lifeway … [Read more...]
Most churches hold Sunday services, Super Bowl or not
By Aaron Earls For churches that have Sunday night activities, most pastors say it’s still “game on” despite the big game next weekend. According to a new study from Nashville-based Lifeway Research, 68 percent of Protestant pastors say their church typically has some activity on Sunday night. And among those pastors, almost 6 in 10 (59 percent) say they will continue as … [Read more...]
Most churches open for business on Christmas, New Year’s Day, say pastors
By Bob Smietana NASHVILLE, Tenn.—More than half of Americans plan to go to church at Christmastime. And most Protestant pastors will keep the doors open for them. Nearly 9 out of 10 Protestant senior pastors say their churches plan to hold services on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, as both fall on a Sunday, according to a recent survey from Nashville-based Lifeway … [Read more...]
Skip the endorsements in church, say most Americans
By Bob Smietana NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Since the 1950s, the IRS has banned preachers from endorsing candidates during church services. Most Americans seem to like it that way. Eight in 10 (79 percent) say it is inappropriate for pastors to endorse a candidate in church. Three-quarters say churches should steer clear of endorsements. Yet fewer than half want churches to be … [Read more...]
Lifeway providing assistance to flood-ravaged Louisiana
By Aaron Earls NASHVILLE, Tenn. —As Louisiana recovers from historic flooding, Lifeway Christian Resources wants to help churches, pastors and other victims. Part of the effort includes restoring Bible study material and pastoral libraries lost in the floodwaters. “Lifeway provides biblical solutions for life,” said Thom Rainer, president and CEO of Lifeway Christian … [Read more...]
