Visitors Prefer Preaching – Sermon Quality

Michael DuduitMichael Duduit, Preaching

Church Visitors and Microphone

We preachers always knew sermons were important to church visitors, but now we have the data to prove it!

The Pew Research Center recently released the results of a survey of 5,000 Americans about whether they have ever changed churches and, if so, how they search for a new church. And the number one factor cited by respondents? Quality of sermons. (Drop the mic.)

The Pew report said: “Among U.S. adults who have ever looked for a new house of worship, about eight-in-ten say the quality of sermons (83%) or feeling welcomed by clergy and lay leaders (79%) played an important role in their choice. Most also cite the style of services (74%) and the location (70%) as important factors to consider when choosing a new congregation. And, overall, 56% say the quality of religious education for children played an important role in their decision. Among those who currently have children under 18, however, two-thirds (65%) say the quality of educational programs for children was an important factor.” (Read the full story.)

So as you prepare your sermon for this Sunday, remember: there may be a visitor out there waiting just to hear you!