Sunday, January 21, 2024
Sunday Reflection: People in Cities
In modern America, it seems like there is an inverse proportionality between population density and religious adherence-- that is, there tends to be more religious expression where there are fewer people. I'm sure there are exceptions-- for example, immigrant communities in cities can be very religious.
Part of that, I suppose, is self-selection. Deeply religious people might be turned off by the decadence of cities, for example, so they live farther out in the country.
I wonder, though, if it also has something to do with the community role played by faith institutions. Even a town with no store will sometimes have a church, and that simply is the place available to gather. Cynically, that would mean that the religious beliefs follow the need for community.
Some city churches, though, are vibrant and full. I love seeing that....
