March ‘Lutheran Witness’: Reaching the ‘Nones’

The fastest-growing religious group in the United States, accounting for 29% of Americans, is the “Nones” — those who, when asked about their religious preference, mark “none.” They are not, however, atheists or agnostics. On the contrary, the majority say they believe in the existence of some sort of higher spiritual being or reality.

The March issue of The Lutheran Witness examines, from a Lutheran perspective, this growing trend in the American religious scene. It explores the historical background of the movement and looks into the causes of its dramatic growth. It also looks at some common characteristics of the Nones. For example, among the Nones, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of people interested in or practicing witchcraft.

Another common characteristic of many Nones is the tendency to put their fear, love and trust in the government. They expect the government to provide for them and to right all wrongs. This idea has a long history, and the Rev. Peter Burfeind explains its roots in his article, “Government: The god of the Nones.”

How should the church respond to the rising number of Nones? As always, we turn to God’s Word. Increase the time you spend with it. Read it in your home. Use it in family devotions. Speak about it with your children. Sing hymns and psalms together. The Rev. Joshua Hayes offers advice on how to make this happen. And the more you speak about Jesus in your home, the more comfortable you’ll become speaking about Him outside your home as well.

Pick up your copy of the March issue of The Lutheran Witness to learn more about the Nones and how to speak of Christ’s atoning work for them. Visit cph.org/witness to subscribe and enjoy web-exclusive stories.

Posted March 10, 2023