Watchdog Group Predicts Potential Decline in Episcopal Congregations

The Episcopal Church’s latest Parochial Report suggests that Sunday attendance is stabilizing following the post-pandemic period. However, the denomination has experienced a significant long-term decline, with membership falling from two million in 2015 to fewer than 1.5 million by 2025.

Anglican Watch, an unofficial watchdog group, has challenged the church's assessment, projecting that between 700 and 1,800 congregations—roughly one in six—could close, merge, or cease independent operations over the next decade. The group cites an aging demographic, noting that 57% of members are 65 or older, while only 10% are between 18 and 34. With a median Sunday attendance of 37, the watchdog argues that even minor attrition could render many small parishes nonviable due to the loss of key leadership and the financial burden of maintaining physical infrastructure.

According to Anglican Watch, the anticipated downscaling may take various forms, including mergers, the sharing of clergy, or the transition of parishes into regional ministries or occasional worshipping communities.