Go Figure: Coming of age and Presbyterian identity
This article originally appeared in the January/February 2017 issue of Presbyterians Today.
March 7, 2017
Does coming of age in a particular era decisively shape people’s values, habits and personalities?
Yes, say some analysts. They argue, for example, that the “Greatest Generation” — Americans who grew up during the Great Depression, World War II and the Korean War — is known for being loyal, hardworking and disciplined. Other generations have been influenced by times of economic affluence, stock market crashes and wars.
Generational characteristics influence religious and political differences among Presbyterians. Those in the Greatest Generation attend worship, pray and read the Bible more regularly than those in other generations. They also donate more money and are more likely to identify as theologically conservative and Republican, especially when compared with Generation Y and Millennial Presbyterians.
There’s evidence, moreover, that the higher religiosity in older Presbyterians does not occur because they become more devoted as they grow older.
Accounting for inflation, giving among the oldest generation hasn’t changed. The percentage of Greatest Generation Presbyterians giving more than $2,500 to their congregations is the same today as it was 20 years ago. In other words, giving did not increase as they grew older.
Likewise, the percentage of Baby Boomer Presbyterians who pray daily or almost daily is about the same today as it was 10 years ago.
Perry Chang, research associate, Research Services for the Presbyterian Mission Agency
Today’s Focus: Coming of age and Presbyterian identity
Let us join in prayer for:
PC(USA) Mission Co-workers
Choon Lim, Korea
Yen Hee Lim, Korea
Michael Ludwig, Niger
Rachel Ludwig, Niger
PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff
Melonee Tubb, PMA
Rick Turner, PMA
Let us pray:
Thank you, Lord, for the gifts of Christian sisters and brothers; for the faithful witness they show in worship experiences small or large. In all we do may we bring honor and glory to you. Amen.
Daily Readings
Morning Psalms 34; 146
First Reading Deuteronomy 9:(1-3) 4-12
Second Reading Hebrews 3:1-11
Gospel Reading John 2:13-22
Evening Psalms 25; 91