Comments on: The Decline of Old-Time Religion

By: Wm V Reynolds

Wm V Reynolds — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 21:24:01 +0000

One reason for the decline of religion in 21st century America is the fact that many churches are stuck in a time warp. I.e., they seem to be living in and preaching to persons of the 19th century. Today’s congregations are more sophisticated that those of two centuries past, but poorly educated ministers and teachers ignore these facts. The church has very little to offer in the way of practical applications and advice. Furthermore the majority of church members are woefully ignorant of church history, their own as well as the church in general. Hence they do not understand that, historically,churches have sought to seperate themselves from governmental control. Many of today’s churches are attempting to take over the government passing laws that would dictate to those outside their congregation how they should worship. These people believe in ” freedom of religion” for themselves but not for everybody else.

By: Ima Ryma

Ima Ryma — Sun, 02 Sep 2012 08:14:17 +0000

Rebecca Harding Davis wrote
Of religion and politics,
New freedoms of bible and vote,
A stirred sainting and sinning mix.
Life was dominated by man
In West Virginia’s wild frontier,
In the 1800′s time span.
Women with ideas – men did fear.
Rebecca spoke least, but wrote most.
Her writings might be gone but for
The Saturday Evening Post
That archives perspectives of yore.

So to the Post, Rebecca sent
Time capsules for future reprint.

By: shirley harrington

shirley harrington — Sat, 01 Sep 2012 19:55:23 +0000

I agree with the article. In the 50′s and early 60′s, in my town, religon was our mainstay. Church worship and prayers is what got us through our days and helping our neighbors. Today, people don’t know their neighbors. They are too busy.

Some of the decline in church attendance could possibley be aged congregation,not able to attend. I am a caregiver for my 101 year old mother-inlaw and 75 year old sister-inlaw. They need 24/7 care which means I have to miss church. There are probably several more who can’t attend for the same reason.

Another reason, parents don’t insist on importance of church to their children.