Survey Results: Spiritual Disciplines Before and During COVID-19
MissioSpark deployed this brief survey in late July 2020. As this post was not boosted or deployed for compensation by survey-takers, there were only 10 respondents. Theoretically, there are not enough respondents for MissioSpark to make any significant assertions about spiritual disciplines before and during COVID-19. There is one significant finding however that may be helpful to the church in charting out ministry opportunities during the pandemic and post-pandemic.
The respondents were considered “regular” churchgoers. This was determined by church attendance prior to the pandemic. Respondents attended church services or study opportunities at least once a month prior to the pandemic. Sixty percent of respondents were age 65 and over; 30% were ages 45 – 54 and 10% were between the ages of 55 – 64.
30% of respondents said that they pray more now since the pandemic whereas 70% state that they pray the same amount of time as before the pandemic.
70% of respondents said that they study more since the pandemic whereas 10% state that they study about the same amount of time as before the pandemic. 20% said that they study less.
On the question of fasting, 80% stated that they do not fast at all and 20% stated that they fast during the pandemic about the same as they did before the pandemic.
On the practice of communal prayer before or after the pandemic, 50% of respondents said that they pray less with others than before the pandemic.
When asked about any new revelations or visions since the pandemic, individuals stated the following:
We are reaching more people through online opportunities.
I have an increased awareness of the presence of God.
I have learned in this time that it is not enough to be against something, but that action is required.
Implications
MissioSpark’s survey results on Spiritual Disciplines Before and During Covid-19 is choosing to highlight one finding that is determined significant for today’s church. Number 4 above on the practice of communal prayer is of concern. As we are not meeting in the traditional fashion but are quarantined to varying degrees, it is expected that church goers would have less opportunities to prayer with others.
As we all navigate the challenges of isolation and doing of church through digital venues, this study suggests that there is a need for communal prayer. Like online worship, communal prayer through Zoom or on a phone line, will help church goers to live out Acts 2:42 as well as aid in individual spiritual development while meeting a psychological need to belong. 50% even of 10 respondents praying less with others, is too high! Implementing communal prayer opportunities is doable and may even yield increased involvement by old and new members alike once we re-enter our buildings.