2025 Church Trends: What People Want in the Modern Church

The landscape of church attendance and engagement has shifted dramatically over the past few years. After a period of virtual services, online streaming, and digital-only interactions, 2025 is showing a significant trend: people are returning to in-person worship, and that is a great thing. But this return isn’t just about physically being in a building—it’s about experiencing a healthy, vibrant church community that engages hearts, minds, and lives. Churches that are thriving in 2025 share some key characteristics, and understanding these trends is crucial for pastors, leaders, and ministry teams who want to create environments where people are excited to give their time, talent, and treasure.

1. Returning to In-Person Worship

One of the most significant shifts in 2025 is the renewed desire for in-person worship. After years of relying on virtual services due to the pandemic, people are craving the authentic energy, fellowship, and spiritual intimacy that comes from being in the same physical space with others. Streaming services and online content were great fill-ins, but nothing replaces the human connection of worshipping side by side with other believers. Nothing is better than the warm embrace you get from a fellow believer. What can beat the feeling of the bass drum and bass guitar in tandem? The sounds, the sights, the movement of in-person church.

Churchgoers are seeking experiences that are real, communal, and spiritually charged. They want to be part of a congregation where smiles are exchanged in the lobby, hugs are shared after a heartfelt prayer, and hands are lifted together in praise. The act of physically gathering for worship reinforces a sense of belonging and accountability. With loneliness at an all time high, having a healthy church to welcome people into is paramount.

For church leaders, this trend underscores the importance of not just reopening buildings, but intentionally crafting worship experiences that make people want to return. You read that right; crafting. See it is not just about allowing the Holy Spirit to move, it's also about opening our planning to that same Holy Spirit. He doesn't just move in spontaneity but He moves in the crafting as well. That means prioritizing hospitality, creating safe and welcoming environments, and ensuring that every person—whether a first-time guest or a lifelong member—feels seen and valued. And shouldn't they feel that way in the house of the Lord? What better place to feel welcomed than in the place that houses the very spirit of God?!

2. A Desire to Give: Supporting Community Efforts

Alongside the return to in-person worship, there’s a noticeable trend of generosity. People are increasingly motivated to give not just to support church operations, but to contribute to meaningful, tangible community efforts. Churches that actively invest in their neighborhoods, schools, and local programs see higher levels of financial participation from congregants. People want to see their money do more than just cover salaries and bills. They want to be a part of something bigger. Show them that your church will invest in its community and you will see people giving without coercion or having to be convinced to give. They want to give; they just want to see their money at work.

This trend highlights a key shift in mindset: giving is no longer just about funding Sunday services or building maintenance. People want to know their contributions are making a real impact—feeding the hungry, mentoring youth, supporting local families in crisis, or funding initiatives that bring hope to underserved areas. Churches that communicate transparency about how funds are used and celebrate wins in community outreach are seeing enthusiastic financial engagement.

Leaders should focus on creating opportunities for congregants to participate in giving that aligns with their passions and spiritual convictions. Highlighting stories of lives changed, community projects completed, and ministries thriving can transform giving from a routine obligation into a joyful, purposeful act. I'll also add that most people don't mind seeing their leaders living moderately well but many take issue with seeing their leader live exponentially better than them. If they drive a Toyota, they are okay that you drive a Lexus. But if you drive a Mazeratti, many will take issue. It doesn't mean you're right or wrong simply based on what you drive; you just need to be aware of how it can be viewed.

3. Community Engagement: Beyond the Walls

Churches that thrive are those deeply embedded in their communities. People are drawn to congregations that go beyond the Sunday sermon and actively engage in meaningful outreach efforts. Whether it’s organizing local cleanups, food drives, mentorship programs, or partnerships with schools and shelters, communities respond to churches that care about the people outside their doors.

A church that is seen as a positive force in the community not only attracts new members but also retains existing ones. People want to be part of a movement that reflects the love of Christ in tangible ways. Community engagement also strengthens the church internally, as volunteers find purpose, develop relationships, and see the direct impact of their efforts.

This trend challenges churches to think creatively about their influence. Ministries that partner with local organizations, host educational and financial workshops, or provide support for practical life challenges position themselves as indispensable pillars of the community. A church that is healthy internally but disconnected from its surroundings risks stagnation.

4. Anointed Worship and Biblical Teaching

While people are drawn to churches for community and outreach, what keeps them coming is spiritual depth. One of the strongest trends in 2025 is the desire for a church that combines an anointed music department with strong, Bible-based teaching. Worship is a gateway for people to encounter God, express their faith, and experience renewal. They don't just want a talented music ministry; they want the anointing. They want to encounter God.

An anointed music department can transform a service and help transform people. Music in itself is powerful. We know that from David. But worship music has a special power that no other music genre has. It's not just music about God, its music that embodies God.

Churchgoers want to feel uplifted, inspired, and emotionally connected to God through music. When worship leaders are intentional about choosing songs that resonate with Scripture and the spirit of the congregation, people leave services energized and spiritually fed.

Equally important is the role of the pastor's preaching assignment. People are craving solid, practical teaching of God’s Word—preaching that is relevant to daily life, rooted in Scripture, and delivered with passion and authority. A church with a vibrant music ministry but weak teaching will struggle to retain members. Conversely, a church with powerful teaching but uninspiring worship may also see engagement drop. The sweet spot is balance: worship that stirs the soul, coupled with teaching that challenges, informs, and equips.

Now, Pastor, it can't just be an encouragement message all the time. You can't just "shout the people." You have to offer substance. Include a story, some history and background on your Bible story, interesting facts, sprinkle in a few jokes and practical application; 25-40 minutes long, then you have a winner. I know to some, 25 is too short (I can agree) and for others, 40 isn't enough. You solid Bible teachers want 1 hour minimum. I know, but that's no longer going to keep the masses. I'm not saying adjust your time to please people. I'm saying adjust your time to keep people engaged.

5. Thriving Children’s Ministry: Investing in the Next Generation

One of the most critical trends for churches in 2025 is the emphasis on children’s ministry. This has always been a powerful tool that many churches didn't use but, it is so important now that it may make or break your church. Families today are looking for churches that invest in the next generation—not just with programs, but with a vision that equips kids spiritually, socially, and emotionally. A strong children’s ministry shows parents that the church is committed to holistic family care, creating a sense of trust and loyalty.

Thriving children’s ministries provide age-appropriate teaching, engaging activities, and safe environments where children can grow in their faith. They also serve as entry points for families who may not yet be deeply connected to the church. Parents often judge a church’s health by how well it nurtures its youngest members, making children’s ministry a strategic priority for 2025 church growth.

Investing in children’s ministry is not just about retention; it’s about legacy. Children who experience God’s love early are more likely to grow into adults who remain connected to the church, giving and serving in turn. Churches that prioritize young discipleship are investing in their long-term vitality and influence.

Conclusion: The Blueprint for a Healthy Church in 2025

The trends in 2025 point to a simple truth: people are looking for churches that are alive, engaged, and relevant. They want to gather in person, participate in meaningful community outreach, worship with anointed music, learn from solid Bible teaching, and see their children grow spiritually. They also want transparency and the opportunity to give generously to causes that impact the world around them.

For church leaders, these trends are both encouraging and challenging. It’s no longer enough to offer Sunday services and call it a day. Churches must be intentional in building environments that prioritize health—spiritually, relationally, and operationally. When churches get these elements right, they don’t just retain members—they cultivate communities where faith thrives, lives are transformed, and people are empowered to give their best to God and others.

2025 isn’t just a year of returning; it’s a year of stepping into a new chapter of church growth and engagement. Leaders who embrace these trends are poised to create congregations that are not only surviving but thriving, leaving a lasting impact on both their members and their communities.