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.

  • @Ensign_CrabEnglish
    28•7 days ago

    Churches should be tax exempt only so far as they are demonstrably charitable. All other income should be taxed. The taxes should go to fund abortion and gender affirmation surgeries.

    • Maeve
      3•6 days ago

      The “charities” can have a hateful agenda, as well. So even there, we’re left dubious. “Render to Caesar (pay taxes), feed the hungry, heal the sick, clothe the naked, minister (take care of) prisoners.” It doesn’t take a religion to fund necessities (like food, health, clothing) through taxes; and it also satisfies most religions’ basic tenets.