Episode Details

In this episode, Thom and Sam shine a light on a trend few church leaders see: the silent exodus of senior adults. While much attention is given to reaching Millennials and Gen Z, an equally significant group is slowly drifting away: older adults who once formed the backbone of many congregations. Their departure isn’t loud or dramatic. It’s subtle: an empty pew, a missing volunteer, a longtime member who quietly stops attending.

1. 1. The impact is profound. Seniors are often the most faithful givers, steady volunteers, and prayer warriors. Losing them weakens the church both spiritually and practically.
   2. Research from Gallup and Pew reveals a marked decrease in weekly church attendance among adults over 65. The decline isn’t isolated. It’s a national trend impacting churches of all sizes, especially small congregations that rely heavily on seniors.
   3. Mobility issues, health challenges, the loss of peers, and shifting church priorities all contribute to disengagement.
   4. Churches can reverse this trend through practical care (transportation, visits, tech help), intergenerational ministry, visible leadership roles, and sermons that speak directly to senior concerns. When seniors are valued and included, the entire church grows stronger.

Take a deeper dive into this subject.

Resources:

• Upward Running

• Upward Sports

• HelpFinder Bible

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Church Growth Services

• “The Silent Exodus of Senior Adults” by Thom S. Rainer

• Ryan Burge

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

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