A new study revealed that a majority of Protestant churchgoers want their pastors to address more current issues from the pulpit. The report was conducted by Lifeway Research, which interviewed 1,008 American Protestant churchgoers during September 19-29, 2023, asking them about their feelings on pastors’ responsibilities when addressing current cultural issues. According to responses, 80 percent of churchgoers agree that a pastor must address current issues to be doing their job. Only 16 percent disagreed. There appears to be a distinction, however, between addressing current issues and making overt political statements, with only 29 percent agreeing in a previous Lifeway Research study believing it was appropriate for pastors to make political endorsements of candidates. However, that number has grown from 13 percent in 2008.

Overall, Christians reported that their pastors are doing well when it comes to addressing current cultural issues, with 27 percent stating their pastor addresses them weekly, with another 35 percent stating their pastor addresses them almost every week. Only one percent stated their pastor never addresses current issues. Churchgoers at larger churches of 500 members or more are the group least likely to hear their pastor address current cultural issues (13 percent). Pastors also share a great amount of trust amongst their congregants, with 91 percent stating they completely trust their pastor.

Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research, stated the increasing desire to hear on cultural stems from a growing secular culture that “increasingly includes fewer overtly Christian elements.” “Churchgoers notice that most pastors are not just preaching from the Bible as a historical document. Pastors seek to explain the original meaning and context, but then apply those principles to issues and situations today. Such application of the biblical text helps churchgoers recognize its relevance,” said McConnell.

The current 2024 election has seen a number of denominations and faith groups dipping their toes in political issues. The group “Evangelicals for Harris” has sought to drum up more support for Kamala Harris, whereas Evangelicals have mainly shown their support for former president Donald Trump. The group has framed Harris as a strong Christian woman with Baptist and Hindu roots, who lacks the brash attitude that has become a staple of Trump’s brand. The group has also painted Trump as a false prophet. Harris released a video address during the AME Church General Conference to show her appreciation for the AME’s support.