September 26, 2025

Young Adults are Reshaping Church Attendance Patterns

Church Trends

Barna’s latest research shows that Gen Z and Millennials now attend church more often than their parents and grandparents. This is a historic reversal from the long decline often associated with younger generations.

What’s striking is the overall rhythm of church attendance. Even among the most engaged young adults, the average is only about two weekends a month.

Why It Matters

This is both encouraging and challenging data. Encouraging, because young adults are showing renewed openness to faith and community. Challenging, because discipleship models built on weekly churchgoing don’t fit today’s reality.

If ministries expect people every Sunday but they’re only present half the time, how can we fill the gaps?

The opportunity lies in creating intentional discipleship strategies through digital tools, small groups, and midweek touchpoints that meet people where they are.

Next Steps

How could your ministry add discipleship strategies to engage a generation that’s showing up more often (but not every week)?

Read Barna’s full report on the resurgence of church attendance here.


How can we help you map out a discipleship plan that reflects today’s church attendance patterns?

Shauna Goodison
Director of Communications | shauna@eaglecom.ca