Best of the Spectator Holy Smoke: is the end of Christendom nigh? with A.N. Wilson
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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.
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Declining Church Attendance
- Packed London congregations mask declining church attendance overall.
- Regular churchgoing in Britain entered a terminal phase during the pandemic.
Secularization Trends
- Weekly church attendance in the Church of England has declined to 650,000.
- Similar secularization patterns are seen in the US, with actual attendance possibly as low as 5%.
Regional Differences in Church Attendance
- Church attendance is concentrated in pockets like London, while other areas have minimal activity.
- Scotland and Wales have experienced widespread church closures.
