While a majority of U.S. adults who worship virtually say they are “highly satisfied,” most still prefer in-person worship services, though a significant minority has adapted to worshiping virtually exclusively, according to a new study from the Pew Research Center.
Those who attended church services in person reported a stronger connection with other worshipers. Among those who watch services online or on TV, only 28% report that they “feel a great deal/quite a bit of connection to other people attending in person.”
The study shows that 57% of U.S. adults do not participate in religious services remotely or in person. Among those that still participate in religious services, the Pew Research Center data show that 27% of U.S. adults still watch religious services remotely even as the COVID-19 pandemic has waned.
While respondents in the survey gave many reasons for remote worship, convenience was the most commonly cited reason for going digital.
Meanwhile, in Utah, parents in a school district north of Salt Lake City are demanding that Bible be returned to libraries.
The Bibles were removed from middle and elementary school libraries after a parent complained that it was inappropriate for children.
The complaint claimed that parts of the Bible fall under the state’s definition of pornography.
School board members said the definition does not apply to Scripture, but they voted to allow Bibles only in high school libraries.
Republican lawmakers on Wednesday joined more than 100 parents and children at the state capitol building to protest the decision.