No one would be surprised that the percentage of Americans going to church every week is in decline.

A recent Gallup poll shows that in 1958, 48% of Americans attended church weekly, but by 2020, that number dropped to 31%. Experts predict this downward trend will likely continue.

Anecdotally, I’ve seen friends and family choose activities other than church on Sundays. I get it—church is a commitment. For those working full-time, weekends are often the only time to relax, and dedicating a morning to getting dressed up and driving to a service might feel undesirable.

But what if the benefits of church attendance outweigh the effort? As someone who has attended church consistently for over 50 years (I’m 51), I’d like to share the top five benefits I’ve experienced.

1. Reconnect with God
Faith is deeply personal, but I believe God’s spirit is real and accessible to anyone who seeks it. The Holy Spirit brings peace and joy, offering a refuge from the chaos of the world.

Regular church attendance allows you to connect with the divine, much like recharging a phone or nourishing your body with wholesome food. While church isn’t the only way to connect with God, it’s a predictable and reliable method.

My favorite part of Sunday is the drive home with my wife, Sam, and our kids—happy, peaceful, and filled with God’s spirit.

How many times have I arrived at church feeling agitated or unhappy, only to leave with those negative feelings washed away?

2. Build a Unique, Diverse Community
Over the years, church has introduced me to my closest friends—people who share my faith, goals, and perspectives.

Beyond peers, I’ve met and worked with individuals of all ages, from seniors to youth, whom I might never have encountered otherwise.

This diverse community has become a cherished part of my life, offering support, wisdom, and connection.

3. Reflect on Your Life
Life moves fast, and it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness. Church provides a weekly opportunity to pause, reflect, and take inventory of your life.

It’s a chance to make new commitments, resolve to do better, and gain clarity.

Just as journaling helps organize thoughts, church offers a structured space for spiritual and personal growth.

4. Gain a Refreshed Perspective
Daily life can feel like a grind, often narrowing our focus to immediate challenges.

Church reminds us of the bigger picture, helping us see beyond our struggles.

By acknowledging a power greater than ourselves, we gain a higher perspective that puts everything into context.

5. Strengthen Family Bonds
Some of my favorite memories are sitting side by side with my kids in a church pew, singing, laughing, and discussing the sermon afterward.

Church consistently brings my family closer, fostering shared values and meaningful traditions.

Why It Matters
The church you attend isn’t as important as the act of attending itself. It may take time to form this habit, but the rewards are immeasurable.

After over 50 years of weekly church attendance, I can confidently say it’s one of the most enriching practices of my life. If you’ve been on the fence, give it a try—you might just find the peace, connection, and perspective you’ve been searching for.