Social capital refers to the unseen connections that unite individuals within a local community. It inspires people to support the local school system even if they don’t have children or to volunteer for a city park cleanup even if they rarely visit it. It’s the cohesive force that strengthens society and sustains a thriving democracy. Ryan Burge joins the show to discuss the connection between social capital and church attendance and how being active in church makes you a better person for your community and nation.
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- In the early 2000s, houses of worship were considered one of the last remaining engines of social capital in the United States. What happened?
- Trust is at an all-time low. In the most recent data collected in 2022, the share of Americans who said other people could be trusted reached an all-time low of just 26%.
- Why are evangelicals a skeptical group? And does church attendance help or hurt this skepticism?
- What does the future hold for social capital and the church?
Resources:
- “Bowling Alone” by Robert Putnam (affiliate link)
Episode Sponsors:
- We are excited to be partnering with Upward Sports in 2025. Upward Sports is the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, partnering with local churches to use sports as a powerful outreach tool to engage the community.
- To remind our listeners, Upward offers a variety of league options, including basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball… and now running for adults.
- Partnering with Upward Sports helps your church reach the community, attract young families, and share the Gospel in a meaningful way.
- At Upward, they will customize your sports outreach strategy to fit your church’s budget, and community needs because we know one size doesn’t fit all.
- Kick off 2025 with purpose—use sports to fuel your outreach ministry!
- Are you looking to engage new families, bless your community, or mobilize your congregation to serve? Whether you have a gym, field space, or access to a facility, Upward Sports can help. We’re here to support your church in creating a first-class, organized, and intentional outreach ministry that tells families, “You are welcome here!”
- Whether you’re building on an existing sports ministry or starting fresh, check out Upward Sports.
- Schedule your call today – www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers
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