Study suggests fewer people believe in God, but more believe in an afterlife
Research from Florida Atlantic University discovered a threefold increase in the number of people who consider themselves to be atheists.
However, the percentage believing in life after death rose from 76% to 79%. Psychology professor at San Diego State University, Jean Twenge, said: ‘Most previous studies concluded that fewer Americans were publicly affiliating with a religion, but that Americans were just as religious in private ways. That’s no longer the case, especially in the last few years.’
Pastor at Ipswich’s Elim Pentecostal Church, Harold Afflu, said: ‘People are more open to spirituality…Maybe we need the wisdom of the Holy Spirit to communicate the gospel in a relevant way, taking advantage of people’s openness to something that is spiritual; something bigger than themselves. Many people would admit they’re empty.’
Meanwhile, another US study suggests UK women are more likely to pray and attend religious services than men. Carried out by the Pew Research Center, Christian women in the UK were found to be 16% more likely to pray every day than men. Women were also more likely to see faith as a ‘very important’ part of their lives.
Dr Jonathan Oloyede, leader of the National Day of Prayer and Worship, said: ‘If the Church sets up a construct that allows men to be functional, to be involved, and to feel affirmed and appreciated, then you’ll find that more men will get involved in the Church and with God.’
CRABB REPLACES DUNCAN SMITH
Christian MP Stephen Crabb has replaced Iain Duncan Smith as work and pensions secretary. He said: ‘The Old Testament talks about “widows and orphans” ...Not a bad guiding star for social policy.’
MOTHER ANGELICA DIES AGED
92 Mother Angelica, the nun who founded Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), which broadcasts to more than 250 million people around the world each day, has died. BENI
JOHNSON ENDORSES
TRUMP Beni Johnson, a senior pastor at Bethel Church, publicly backed Donald Trump on Facebook but later scaled back her comments. She believes Trump is unique, candid and has sound morals.
MORGAN FREEMAN BELIEVES IN GOD
Actor Morgan Freeman has travelled to seven countries for a documentary series called The Story of God. Freeman says he now believes in the existence of God