Experts project an estimated 100,000 churches in the US will close or be repurposed over the next decade.

Many churches will be unable to escape this “tsunami” of closings — a grim trajectory one pastor described as, “Every year the pews are getting emptier and the collection plates getting lighter.”

you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
[–] 6 points 1 week ago (1 child)

In my experience that only happens if you toe the line. I'll never forget the people telling me I'm going to hell because my parents are divorcing. People being ostracized for watching Star Wars. I remember the children of the church's higher ups being monsters that never faced consequences. I remember being made to go to anti abortion rallies.

  • source
  • parent
  • hideshow 1 child comment
  • [–] 4 points 1 week ago

    I remember a gay friend (20?) being never allowed alone in the same room as a mutual friend's younger brother (14?). Waiting in the lounge prior to services? Make sure there's a chaperone before you use the restroom. This wasn't because the friend was any danger, it was to avoid the appearance of impropriety. So weird.

  • source
  • parent