A new Lifeway Research survey finds that most Protestant churchgoers in the U.S. are satisfied with their congregation’s approach to worship, regardless of whether services are highly liturgical or more contemporary. Three out of four respondents (75%) said they are content with their church’s current worship style, while 13% would like to see more liturgical elements and just 5% would prefer fewer. The study found significant variety among churches.
Generational trends stood out in the findings. Younger adults were less likely to attend highly liturgical churches. Older churchgoers, meanwhile, were more likely to attend liturgical congregations and reported the highest levels of satisfaction with their worship experience.
“Many younger churchgoers are curious and eager to grow in their faith, but they may still be learning how the larger story of Scripture fits together. Liturgical elements such as creeds and other regular practices can serve as helpful reminders of biblical truths and provide structure that guides believers through worship,” said Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research.
