September 7, 2026 - Good Morning! It’s Monday, September 7.
Have you heard about the zombie churches of Europe? Sounds scary, doesn’t it? Actually it’s more sad. The term refers to the thousands of churches there that have closed their doors during the last generation. It’s a cautionary tale for our congregations here in the United States.
During the 1950’s, church attendance averages in Europe began to fall and have continued to fall each year since. Right after World War II more than 90% of Europeans went to services each Sunday. Today that number is less than 25%, with some areas in the single digits. The secularization of the continent is almost complete.
One result of this alarming change is the closure and abandonment of thousands and thousands of houses of worship - zombie churches. Many have been torn down. Many others have been transformed into community centers, gyms, hotels, restaurants. Some are even nightclubs and breweries. The photographs online are surreal and sad.
This cataclysmic development didn’t occur over centuries. It has all happened within my lifetime. What will happen to the American Church within the lives of my children? It is a cautionary tale and reminds us of the wisdom found in Hebrews 10:23-25. “Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
Meet you back here tomorrow,
David
cindertex50@yahoo.com
