Our research team stays abreast of numerous trends in culture, many of which will have a direct impact on the church. Let's take a look at four of them.
Culture trend No. 1: Huge increase in the expenditures for items for babies, including cribs, high chairs, strollers and baby gates. Last year consumers spent $8.6 billion on baby furniture alone. The bridger parents (born between 1977 and 1994) appear to be pampering their babies more than any previous generation.
Church impact: Bridger parents are unlikely to attend churches without modern nurseries, safe childcare, and quality programs.
Culture trend No. 2: The boomer generation will inherit over $1 trillion in the next decade.
Church impact: Churches that encourage their boomer members to give portions of their inheritance to the church may reap significant financial benefits.
Culture trend No. 3: The number of women 55 and older in the work force will increase by more than 50 percent between 2000 and 2010.
Church impact: Women of this age are among the key workers in many churches. They will have less discretionary time for church activities in the next few years.
Culture trend No. 4: Twelve percent of Americans spend Friday nights alone. This group of people is highly likely to say they feel "very alone in the world."
Church impact: Churches that provide some type of ministry and activity for singles, including widows, widowers, and divorced persons, are likely to discover a tremendous opportunity for ministry and outreach.
 Dr. Thom S. Rainer
