A Message from Our Leadership
Two national studies were published in 2021 that confirmed a long-term trend we have seen through our work at Partners for Sacred Places : a growing number of sacred places in the United States are underused and at risk . These studies — the 2020 Faith Communities Today Overview ( FACTS ) and the National Congregations Study ( NCS ) — both merit a thorough read , but three findings are especially concerning :
• A growing number of America ’ s congregations are small . According to FACTS , median worship attendance has decreased by over 50 % in the last 10 years , from 137 to 65 participants . This means that there are over 150,000 congregations in the United States with fewer than 70 active members .
• Small congregations are getting smaller . Two-thirds of congregations with fewer than 50 worship participants were shrinking .
• Congregations in rural areas and small towns are particularly at risk because many of these congregations were formed at a time when the local population was larger and younger than it is today .
Although tens of thousands of sacred places in every corner of our country are underused and at risk , they still bring enormous value to their communities . Partners ’ research has shown that sacred places generate significant community value , serving not only as centers of worship but also as homes for the arts and programs that serve children and youth , seniors , the homeless and hungry , immigrants , and so many others .
Whether we are talking about a rural United Methodist Church in North Carolina or a synagogue in downtown Chicago , sacred places may be both underused and vital centers of community . This Annual Report talks about how Partners helps congregations increase their sustainability and make the most of their properties for a variety of community purposes — sometimes in ways that are unexpected — such as helping communities recover from disasters ( page 3 ) or serving as sites for community concerts during COVID-19 ( page 9 ). And in cases where congregations are ready to sell their buildings , Partners ’ tools can ensure that sacred places continue to serve as community assets ( page 10 ).
We want to express our deep appreciation to all the donors and partners who have supported both Partners ’ research and ongoing programs in the past year , and to those whose early support made the organization what it is today . If you have not yet become a partner in our mission , please consider making a gift or reaching out to us . Shaping the future of America ’ s older and historic sacred places is of enormous importance to all of us , now more than ever .
The Rev . Katherine Glaze Lyle Board Chair
Bob Jaeger President
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