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Pollster asks: what needs to be done?
By Matthew Greco
2002-048s
2/28/2002
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[Episcopal News Service]
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. 'That’s why I’m 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 don’t know. They don’t know what they believe,' he said.
Gallup noted that eight in 10 say they’re 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 can’t name them.
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