Thursday's Catch: 'Who are filling up the pews?' And More

Who are filling up the pews? Highly educated parents.
Ryan Burge takes a look at what is driving religious attendance in the United States.

Social Security Administration backtracks on some ID requirements after backlash
The Social Security Administration is partially backtracking on a plan that would require all new and existing beneficiaries to travel to a Social Security field office to verify their identity.

Related: Social Security service fallout reaches ND

Medicaid and SNAP Cuts Could Cost US 1 Million Jobs
A report has predicted that the proposed federal budget cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) could result in severe economic repercussions across the U.S., including the loss of millions of jobs.

I will be posting links to articles related to developments which may affect churches in the United States in future editions of Anglicans Ablaze. Changes to Social Security are going to affect churches with aging congregations, which form a large proportion of smaller churches in the United States. As more and more tariffs are implemented and the country begins to feel their effects, we can expect not only higher prices and shortages of various kinds but also more layoffs and business closures and increased unemployment. From what the economic experts say, we will not experience their full impact until later in the year. The tightening of visa requirements and the reduction in the issuance of green cards to applicants for permanent residency will have a negative impact upon short-term mission trips, campus ministries to international students, and clergy and seminary professors from other countries working in the United States.

Are we expecting too much of the church?
The church is not a sugar daddy whose purpose is to meet all our personal, social and vocational needs.

The Rise of Nietzschean Christianity
"...it may surprise you to learn that many today seem bent on combining the two approaches into a single life philosophy. Professing Christians—mainly online—are presenting a twisted version of Christianity that champions Nietzschean values in the name of Christ. Every week, I encounter online personalities using the name of Jesus in pursuit of Nietzschean ideals and goals."

The Weirdness of God’s Absolution Timetable
This essay is paired with another, appearing yesterday, on the traditional confession of sin.

What Pastors Should Wear While Preaching (Proper Church Dress Code)
In many Christian traditions, clergy still wear liturgical garments. As a low-church Baptist, I have limited knowledge about the use and symbolism of Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Eastern Orthodox, Methodist, and Episcopal vestments. However, in many of these churches, the expectations concerning clergy attire are clear. This article addresses the muddied perspectives of dress codes in evangelical churches.

There are different schools of clergy dress in the Anglican, Episcopal, and Methodist churches. What the clergy wears may differ from service to service. In a Methodist church, for instance, the pastor may dress casually in street clothes for a contemporary service and then don a black gown or a white alb and brightly colored stole for a traditional service. On special occasions the pastor may wear a suit and tie.

What Does Jesus Want Me to Do?
Whether you’re a ministry resident weighing the future or a mid-career professional thinking about seminary, the question “Am I called?” can be overwhelming. For many, it represents a major life change, like moving or switching careers. Calling is important, and we’re right to take it seriously. But sometimes we overthink it. Discerning God’s will may not be as complicated as you think.

Why Are Some Churches More Evangelistic Than Others?
Invite a friend to church. What could be so hard about that right? But we all know it’s more challenging than it appears. Culture has shifted, and while it is true that there is a resurgence of interest in God and spiritual life, it is also true that popular culture does not see a need for regular church attendance. The invitation, however, is extraordinary....