The American church is in the midst of the largest movement of people into or out of church bodies in the history of the country. An estimated 40 million people have left the church in the past 25 years.

Among those who have left: Parents with young families. These families love Jesus and want their kids to do the same, but they’re overwhelmed by commitments to work, kids’ sports, kids’ school activities and a thousand other things. Although they might not admit it, for these families, church has become optional and often gives way to the other forces in their lives.

The fact that most of these people are still Christians is good news. The bad news, of course, is that when we detach ourselves from communities of faith, the world starts to creep in. Our faith becomes flimsier and more conceptual (rather than practical).

And while the dechurched generation might ultimately remain faithful, statistics overwhelmingly suggest that their children and grandchildren will not. Put succinctly: The kids of the dechurched become the unchurched. It's a sad reality, but there is hope.

Let's get together with other Ridge parents to learn more about the phenomenon of dechurching, what's at risk and what we can do about it.

Led by Pastor Mike Van Rees and Dayne Logan