United Methodist Communications Research Team launched a study on March 26, 2020 to assess the impact of the coronavirus on local church activity levels, including ways churches are adapting and identifying interest in resources and tools to support local church during the crisis.
Download study results
A Phase II study was conducted in late April 2020 to assess more comprehensively how the pandemic is affecting United Methodist congregations at this more advanced stage of the crisis. Results suggest a very adaptive United Methodist Church, capable of finding creative solutions of conducting ministry and supporting members. Generally, respondents have a very positive outlook, with some caution as they look forward to the next phase of the pandemic.
View Phase 2 results
In early June 2020, United Methodist Communications fielded the third phase of this study, which continued to track attendance, online worship, and giving, and added a series of questions about reopening. Five key trends identified in earlier research continue in this phase.
More about these trends
In mid-May 2021, United Methodist Communications fielded the fourth phase of this study which assessed the impact of COVID-19 on local church services and ministries, finances and clergy well-being and also explored demographic trends. Read press release.
View Phase 4 results