Episcopal Church membership falls below 1.5 million

The Episcopal Church has reported a significant decline in membership, with the total number of members falling to approximately 1,425,065. This represents a loss of nearly 500,000 members over the past decade, down from 1.917 million in 2015.

In-person Sunday worship attendance has also decreased, dropping from roughly 600,000 in 2015 to 407,001 in the most recent reporting period. While the church noted some recovery in attendance following the COVID-19 pandemic low of 300,000 in 2021, figures remain below pre-pandemic levels. Digital engagement remains a factor, with an average of 116,936 people attending services via livestream.

Demographic data highlights a significant aging trend within the denomination. A survey by the Hartford Institute of Religion Research found that 57% of Episcopalians are aged 65 or older, while only 10% fall within the 18 to 34 age bracket. The median age of church members is 60. The reports suggest that the church's increasingly progressive theological stances may have contributed to the departure of some congregations and members over the years.