wfn.org | Episcopalians: Pollster asks: what needs to be done?

[dmack@episcopalchurch.org]

February 28, 2002

2002-048s

Episcopalians: Pollster asks: what needs to be done?

by Matthew Greco

(ENS) Religious education has an important role to play in 
developing Americans spirituality, according to pollster George 
Gallup. Most people have little idea of their gifts and 
strengths, he said. "We need to find that." 

People also need reminders that choices are best made with the 
counsel of others in small groups where they can be held 
accountable, Gallup added during comments at the annual 
symposium of the Henri Nouwen Society meeting at a New York City 
church recently. 

Indeed, the search for deeper spirituality is accompanied by a 
measurable, widespread desire to come in contact with a small 
group or with one other person in prayer, as well as a desire to 
move to the margins, to move outside the comfort zone to help 
others, Gallup said. This is seen through the popularity of 
mentoring programs. "This is an opportunity not to be missed by 
the faith communities of America," he said.  

Where are people finding community today? Four in 10 say they 
belong to small groups, which provide them with nourishment and 
care. Some 60% of those say the groups are related to the faith 
community.

People need to feel listened to, appreciated and respected, and 
they need practical help in living their faith, Gallup said. 
"Thats why Im so enthusiastic with the Alpha program--80% of 
people stay with it, and most of the other 20% come back to it." 

The Alpha program is also very successful in prisons, another 
place from which the religious renewal will emerge, Gallup said. 

The Alpha program is basic Christianity 101. "It tells people 
who Jesus Christ is. Most people dont know. They dont know 
what they believe," he said.

Gallup noted that eight in 10 say theyre Christians, but only 
four in 10 can say who gave the Sermon on the Mount, Gallup 
noted. Most people say the Ten Commandments are valid, but they 
cant name them. 

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--Matthew Greco is a journalist attending Union Seminary in New 
York.