I recently read a report from a Young America’s Foundation survey where 1,620 13–24-year-old teenagers/young adults replied that 27% of them have never gone to church—437 children who have NEVER gone to church.

The $37 Billion Distraction
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There could be countless reasons for this. One that we know exists is youth sports. Abby Perry, a freelance journalist, writes:

“Youth sports have become a $37 billion industry in the United States. And for many families, these sports aren't just a pastime—they're a lifestyle.”

Her article, “Feeling Torn Between Church and Youth Sports?” is a worthy read for children’s pastors.

It is no surprise that youth sports and attending church are a family struggle. Rev. Angela Denker, a former sportswriter turned Lutheran pastor, writer, speaker—and wife and mom of two little boys—writes:

“Too often, this gap in understanding between youth sports aficionados and church leaders results in defensive postures. Pastors see youth sports as totally out of control and bemoan the way it creates kids who think the world revolves around them. Parents, who are already overwhelmed just trying to do their best by their kids, react in frustration to the pastors’ attempts to add more responsibilities and activities to families’ lists. And churches just can’t offer the same visions of glory that youth sports can.”

Restated, the church is losing as a “lifestyle.”

Has the Church Changed with the Times?

In the past, we didn’t have a $37 billion industry tearing children away from Sunday School. When I grew up, all sporting events happened on Fridays and Saturdays. Times have changed. Has the Church?

It’s not just middle school and high school children who are missing church. Today, children as young as three and four years old are participating in gymnastics, soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, football, hockey, swimming, wrestling, etc. Parents pour thousands of dollars into team dues, hotels, travel, and uniforms. It’s no wonder they feel invested in getting their children to practice and their scheduled games.

There is a danger that nobody talks about, though. What is happening when the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus are less important than winning at all costs? We cannot afford to trade the Gospel of Jesus Christ for the American gospel of winning.

Who Will Change?
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A pastor can claim that the institution of Sunday School far outdates the infatuation with sports. While that is true, so is the undeniable fact that children miss church due to weekend sports activities. A business that does not change with the times typically withers into nonexistence or irrelevance. We can ill afford that same fate with the church.

Ryan Foley claims that in 1999, 70% of Americans said they belonged to a church, synagogue, or mosque. In 2018, the figure was 50%. Today, that figure is 30%. There are most likely several reasons for this decline. Today, we are viewing how weekend sports have contributed.

Thinking Differently

Is Saturday church an option? Is adding a second day throughout the week an option? How can the church meet parents—and their children—where they are? This may take meetings with organizations and asking parents how to better engage with them. Ask the question, and then listen. This tried-and-true sales technique will typically provide a roadmap on just how to reach your sought-after families.

Many churches already broadcast live or post their Sunday sermons on YouTube or other social media platforms. Why not Sunday School content? Yes, it’s a commitment to video each age group’s content. But can you afford not to do it?

AJ Busy, Next Gen Director with Southbrook Christian Church in Dayton, Ohio, explained that they utilize “Hyfi” in their children’s ministry. My quick research showed me they provide monthly digital content. Parents can get involved too! Further research shows there are other providers to meet children’s ministry needs.

It appears content is NOT the issue. The issue is getting it out to those organizations and parents. Meet their needs. Introduce church while meeting the families’ needs to be involved in youth sports.

This Is Not a One-Size-Fits-All Fix

This article will not provide a one-size-fits-all solution. The purpose of this article is to get you to think outside the box. There is a huge population of families that you can reach. They need church, and church needs them.

Phil Parks is a Pastoral Counselor, Author, past Adjunct Faculty Member with Cuyahoga Community college, and Guest Speaker for both Wright State University & University of Dayton. He recently founded Parenting For Adulthood. His passion is for helping people improve in business, life and spiritually. You can find articles from Phil at www.parentingforadulthood.org.