| Must Read Strengthening Faith Communities Across all generations, most people affirm that religion holds a special place in their lives. More than a third of Americans say religion is among the key things that matter to them most, according to research from the Public Religion Research Institute, with 15% saying it’s the most important thing in their lives. When it comes to attending services, 9% attend more than once a week, and 15% attend weekly. However, about 35% of Americans say they never attend services, and 27% say religion is not important to them. By using promo, religious organizations can reach out to people who may feel distanced from a faith community. Welcome kits like branded totes packed with an event calendar and custom mug can help newcomers feel embraced. Friendship Across Faiths Most U.S. adults – more than 6 in 10 – say they have friends of a different religion than their own, including 18% who say hardly any or none of their friends share the same religion as they do. What if certain topics get a little tricky to navigate? Most Americans (62%) try to understand the other person’s beliefs and agree to disagree, reflecting a growing acceptance of differing views. A third prefer to avoid religious discussions altogether, and only 4% try to persuade others to change their beliefs. Places of worship and religious communities can use promo to celebrate interfaith connections. For example, co-branded merch featuring verses or quotes from different religious traditions could spark conversations and deepen connections. Top 10 Most Religious States Where can you find the most faithfully devoted across the U.S.? According to SmileHub, a nonprofit tech company that uses data to rate charities, they can be found in the following states: 1 Alabama 2 Virginia 3 Texas 4 Tennessee 5 North Carolina 6 South Carolina 7 Indiana 8 Pennsylvania 9 Georgia 10 New York SmileHub evaluated all 50 states on factors such as religious interest and places of worship, religious education and careers, and religion-affiliated organizations. Tap into the spirit of these engaged communities with promo. Items like tumblers and T-shirts promote a sense of connection and resonate with people far and wide. Vital Vocations More than 1.4 million people work in religious organizations in the U.S., and they come from all walks of life. From pastors, rabbis, imams and other spiritual leaders to office managers, music directors and education coordinators, each plays a different role in their place of worship. Branded merchandise can help them do their jobs more effectively and expand their outreach. For example, banners and tablecloths can help welcome people to events and gatherings. Promo like bookmarks and keychains are great for handing out at youth programs or community events. What Entices People To Gather Congregants and members of faith communities are drawn to specific churches, synagogues, mosques and other places of worship for different reasons. A Gallup poll shows these are some of the biggest factors that compel people to choose one religious community over another: Sermons or talks that explain scripture 76% Sermons or lectures that connect religion to one’s own life 75% Spiritual programs for kids and teens 64% Community outreach and volunteer opportunities 59% Interesting and inspiring religious leaders 54% Social activities that encourage community engagement 49% A good choir, praise band, cantors or other spiritual music 38% Places of worship can use promo to connect with attendees on the aspects that most resonate with them. For example, organizations could use custom activity books to promote youth programs or journals to highlight the faith community’s various programs. PPAI • DECEMBER 2024 • 39
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