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Holy Smoke: is the end of Christendom nigh? with A.N. Wilson
Dec 15, 2024
A.N. Wilson, a historian and novelist known for his insights on religion and British history, discusses the stark decline of church attendance in the UK and its implications. He questions if Christianity is fated for extinction, comparing it to Platonism. The conversation reveals a historical trajectory towards secularization, examines the effects of changes like female priests, and reflects on past religious fervor in England. Wilson highlights how these trends challenge the future of rural Christianity amidst evolving societal values.
25:05
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Quick takeaways
- Christianity in Britain is facing a significant decline, with regular church attendance halving since 2009, indicating a broader crisis of engagement.
- Despite widespread decline, some individuals maintain a personal commitment to religious practices, viewing attendance as a resistance against secular consumerism.
Deep dives
Decline of Mass Christianity in Britain
Mass Christianity in Britain is experiencing a significant decline, marked by regular church attendance reaching critical lows during the pandemic. Statistics reveal that weekly attendance for the Church of England has fallen from approximately one million in 2009 to around 650,000, which may itself be an optimistic estimate. This trend is echoed in the United States, where attendance is reported to be as low as 5%, despite around 20% of people claiming regular attendance. Such data highlights a troubling reality: while some congregations may seem vibrant, the overall picture reveals a larger crisis of disengagement from traditional religious practices across the UK.
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