Who

“So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another.” - Romans 12:5

Who Attends St. John’s?

We conducted a parish survey that included basic demographic questions like age, gender, race, and educational level. This survey was voluntary and therefore may not be exactly representative of the whole congregation. However, the numbers feel about right. This is an older congregation: two-thirds of those who responded to the survey are age 65 or older, and 20% are 80 or older. Of the 82 people who responded, 68% identify as female, and 95% identify as white. Overall, 87% have at least a college education. More than half of people attend with a family member, usually a spouse/partner (46%) or child (18%).

(Scroll down for some details about the people who completed the survey.)

These Superficial Characteristics Don’t Tell the Whole Story

People are drawn together at St. John’s because of a common love for the traditional style of music and worship coupled with the welcoming environment which affirms the rights of all people, including the LGBTQ+ community, and provides opportunities for community service.

“The eulogy gives me a sense of solid dependable ground that I can rely on each week to carry through my week,” one person wrote. “I love the feel of a ritualistic worship, and I think we do that well.”

Likewise, the musical offerings were recognized as being exceptionally strong. One person wrote, “The adult choir continues to get better and better each week. They confidently lead the congregation in song. The organist's leadership of the hymns and service music also helps the congregation to sing with great strength. The concert series brings incredible talent and great variety of musical styles to our church and gives non-members a chance to become acquainted with St. John’s.”

Another person wrote of community service, “This is at the heart of St. John’s in my opinion. We are actively participating in and supporting multiple outreach programs. We excel in this area.” Several people praised Deacon Sue’s role in the community. “Deacon Sue is ALWAYS in our community sharing the Word with others,” one person wrote.

How Did We Form This Beloved Community?

The average length of attendance is 20-25 years, with a range from 1 to 80 years among those who completed the survey. When asked how they came to attend St. John’s, about half of people described finding it through a church shopping process, usually because they had recently moved to the area. Again, as noted above, the style of worship was a major appeal. The next most common reason was being invited by a friend or enjoying the friendliness of the congregation.

The Unmeasured Group

It’s important to note one group that is present but did not complete the survey – people who are experiencing homelessness, drug addiction or other difficult circumstances. Although they are unlikely to attend worship services, they often access church community programs, such as food distribution, and sometimes sleep on church grounds.

“Seeing our neighbor, who is made in the image of God, in the homeless, addicted, and marginalized. We need to grow into the Beloved Community, the words of our current Presiding Bishop.”