Navigation Project Overview Why is This Study Unique? Key Results Myths Results for Congregations Measuring Vitality Can My Congregation Take Part? Project Timeline Participating Countries Participating Denominations Press Photos About U.S. Congregations Project Sponsorship Contact Us

Myth 7. A typical worshiper is over 65 years of age and retired. While worshipers, on average, are older than the U.S. population, their average age is 50 years -- not 65! In fact, three-quarters are less than 65 years of age. And, the majority are not retired! Half of all worshipers are employed either full- or part-time. One in ten describe themselves as homemakers, and about as many are students. But 25% are retired. Among the U.S. population, about 14% are retired, so worshipers are somewhat more likely to be retired -- not surprising given that they are older, on average, than the U.S. population. Worshipers are also well-educated. More than one-third of worshipers hold a college degree or an advanced degree. The U.S. Census reports that just 23% of the general population is similarly educated. Fully 87% of worshipers have completed high school. Finally, considerable diversity is found in the marital status and family types found in the pews. The Ward and June, Wally and Beaver, traditional nuclear family is no longer the norm in America. This is reflected in the diversity found among worshipers. Return to: Myths about Worshipers and Congregations

Copyright 2002 Research Services. All rights reserved.

Last modified April 25, 2002 by U.S. Congregations Home Page Manager