Members and Attendees Share Input Through 2025 Survey

Nearly 2,500 people participated from 24 countries, with more than 2,300 valid responses after quality checks. This represents a strong cross section of the Church and provides a margin of error of 2.4 percent at a 99 percent confidence level—an excellent level of reliability for understanding how the body of Christ is experiencing church life today.

As in past cycles, every comment was read and categorized to ensure the voice of the membership was accurately reflected and all responses were anonymous. The results were presented to the Council of Elders and administration, who have already begun incorporating the findings into strategic planning and operational decisions.

Overall Findings

The quantitative results show that the Church continues to be seen as a strong positive force in spiritual growth. Many respondents expressed deep appreciation for the teaching, resources, and stability they receive through UCG.

At the same time, several themes emerged where members see opportunities for improvement:

• Congregational care and belonging show mixed results. Many feel loved and supported, while others feel less engaged or unsure how to connect.
• Biblical resources are valued, but some members desire more support during difficult personal trials.
• Weekly messages are appreciated but sometimes described as repetitive or lacking depth; there is room to elevate the delivery style and effectiveness of messages.
• Service and involvement remain areas of both strength and challenge. Many serve regularly, yet others want to serve but don’t know how to begin.
• Being a light in the community is an aspiration for many, but members desire clearer pathways and encouragement to do so.

The qualitative comments— thousands of them—add richness and clarity to these themes.

Service: A Desire to Contribute and a Need for Inclusion

One of the strongest messages from this year’s survey is the desire among members to serve more fully. Many respondents expressed gratitude for opportunities they already have. Others, however, shared that they want to serve but feel unsure how to get involved, or feel their offers to help are not welcomed.

Some described congregations where the same small group carries most of the responsibilities. Others noted that service is often associated only with visible tasks—speaking, leading music, organizing activities—rather than the broader, relational service Scripture describes.

A recurring theme was the longing to feel invited. Several comments reflected this sentiment: “I don’t feel like the Church gives me an opportunity to serve; I step out on my own and offer myself to anyone who needs it” and “There are brethren with talents who want to serve, but they are never asked.”

At the same time, those who have been serving for many years expressed feeling stretched thin. This creates a cycle where some are overloaded while others stand back, unsure how to join in.

The survey results point to a simple but powerful truth: service is about people, not tasks. It is less about filling roles and more about making sure every person feels wanted, valued, and included. Each of us has a part in this—not only leaders or longtime volunteers. As one respondent put it, “Every member of the body has a role to play.”

Belonging: Many Feel Loved, Yet Some Feel Invisible

A large majority of respondents feel cared for and treated with Christian love in their congregations. Many described their local church as “family,” a refuge, and a source of strength.

Yet the comments also reveal a quieter reality: some members feel overlooked, lonely, or unsure how to break into established social circles. A number of respondents used words like “cliques,” “inner circle,” or “outsider” to describe their experience.

One comment captured this poignantly: “I have been here almost two years and only a few people even know my name.”

These are not the majority of experiences—but they matter deeply. Christ’s example reminds us that the one sheep who feels lost deserves our full attention. The survey highlights an opportunity for every congregation, and for each of us to be more proactive in noticing, welcoming, and drawing in those who may be standing alone.

Spiritual Growth and Teaching

Members continue to express strong appreciation for the Church’s role in fostering spiritual growth. Online sermons, ABC class videos, and media resources were frequently praised as valuable tools for learning and encouragement.

At the same time, many respondents expressed a desire for:

• Practical guidance for Christian living in a rapidly changing world
• More opportunities for meaningful spiritual conversations

Some noted that fellowship can feel superficial, with members unsure how to discuss biblical topics or navigate differences of opinion peacefully. This is an area where congregations can continue to grow— creating environments where spiritual conversations feel natural, safe and enriching.

Support in Difficult Times

Experiences in this area varied widely. Many respondents shared heartfelt gratitude for the love and support they received during trials. Others, however, felt alone or unsure where to turn for help.

This contrast suggests that while many congregations excel in care, there is room to strengthen consistency—ensuring that no one feels forgotten during hardship.

Being a Light in the Community

Members expressed a strong desire to be more active in their communities and to shine God’s light beyond the walls of the church. Younger adults in particular expressed interest in service projects, outreach and opportunities to work together in meaningful ways.

Many respondents noted that while personal example is important, coordinated congregational efforts could help members feel more confident and connected in this aspect of the Church’s mission.

Pastoral Appreciation

Across all regions, respondents expressed deep admiration for their pastors and their wives. Many comments described pastors as loving, dedicated, and sacrificial in their service. At the same time, members recognize the heavy workload pastors carry and the need to balance expectations with available resources.

Conclusion

This year’s survey paints a picture of a deeply valued Church, but one with opportunities to grow stronger, be more connected and more welcoming.

The most consistent message across all comments is simple: people want to feel included. They want to serve. They want to belong. They want to grow. They want to feel wanted. And they want to help others grow.

These are not tasks assigned to a few—they are responsibilities shared by all of us. Each of us has the ability to notice someone standing alone, to invite someone into a conversation, to ask someone to help, or to offer help themselves. Service is not a checklist; it is a way of being with one another.

As one respondent beautifully expressed, “God has placed me in the perfect place to foster my growth, understanding, and healing.” Our collective opportunity is to help every member and visitor, to feel that way.

The survey team extends sincere appreciation to all who took the time to participate. Your input is invaluable, and your voice is heard. Thank you for helping us strengthen the work we are doing together.

The full video presentation of the 2025 members’ survey results can be viewed at: youtu.be/NETf0sHWB_g.

Julie Brown