Boredom in the service: how to scare sermons!

Boredom in the service: how to scare sermons!

A new study by the universities of Vienna and Sussex illuminates an urgent problem within the faith community: the spiritual boredom that could prevent many believers from regular services. According to the publication in the journal "Communications Psychology", study director Thomas Götz recommends paying the church to this phenomenon of urgent attention. He warns that boring sermons can drastically reduce the willingness to participate in services. At a time when spirituality is becoming increasingly important, this findings gain a special relevance, such as Kathpress reported .

The survey, which over 1,200 adults surveyed from the German -speaking area, showed that sermons are perceived as the least appealing religious activities - with an evaluation of only 3.6 on a scale from 1 to 5. On the other hand, the pilgrimage was rewarded with an excellent rating of 1.3. Götz also explains that the abstractness and the lack of relevance of the content deter many believers. In order to counteract this boredom, he advises more alive sermons that take up current topics and promote interactivity. In addition, digital elements and visual materials could be integrated into the sermons to increase attention and revitalize spirituality.

New understanding of religious practices

The study reveals that the spiritual development of people can be inhibited by boring services, especially in times of global crises. Götz emphasizes that other worship elements such as spiritual songs and Eucharist are often perceived as more important. Nevertheless, the sermon is crucial for the decision whether someone regularly participates in services. "A boring sermon can lead to people turning away from the church," said Götz. These findings could be of considerable importance for many communities and toast a realignment of the services in order to better achieve the believers.