People are Searching
Every day, people in your community are typing questions into search bars that reveal deep spiritual longings:
“church near me,”
“how do I pray,”
“does God care about me?”
Millions of people type spiritual questions into Google. They’re not just looking for theology — they’re looking for hope, healing, and belonging.
30% of U.S. adults go online to search for information about religion
That’s nearly one in three people in your town who may be looking for answers to faith questions not by walking into a church, but by opening a browser. This isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about recognizing that the Great Commission is still active — and the mission field has expanded.
The Story behind the Search
Behind every search is a story. Here’s examples of what people are typing — and their spiritual needs:
“How do I save my marriage?”
→ They’re not just looking for a seminar.
→ They’re looking for hope.
“Why do I feel so alone?”
→ They’re not just lonely
→ They’re wondering if anyone sees them.
“What is my purpose?”
→ They’re not asking for a career path.
→ They’re asking if their life matters.
“Does God care if I’m depressed?”
→ They’re not looking for a diagnosis.
→ They’re looking for hope and compassion.
“Is Jesus really God?”
→ They’re not seeking debate.
→ They’re seeking testimonies.
These are spiritual questions wrapped in emotional pain. And they’re being asked online — often in private, often in desperation.
Encouragement for Leaders
Pastor, you don’t have to be a tech expert. You just have to see digital tools as ministry tools.
People are searching.
Every search is a knock at the door.
Every click is a conversation.
Every online moment is a chance to say, “You’re not alone. God sees you. And so do we.”
The Great Commission in the digital age means showing up where people are already asking the deepest questions of their lives — and answering with truth, grace, and love.
The Church’s Opportunity
This is where the church can shine. Not with polished marketing, but with a pastoral presence.
- A clear, welcoming website can be the first step toward healing.
- A prayer request form can be the moment someone feels heard.
- A blog post on “How God meets us in depression” can be the first time someone sees Scripture as relevant.
- A livestreamed sermon can be the gospel message someone needs to hear.
- A digital small group can be the first place someone finds community and fellowship.
47% of Americans regularly wonder about the meaning and purpose of life
Key Insight
The data is clear — people are already searching for faith online. The question is whether they’ll find your church when they do and whether you’ll connect with them on their journey.
Search Trends
These aren’t just keywords. They are individuals seeking spiritual guidance.
According to Google Trends and Pew Research:
References
- Pew Research Center. (2023, June 2). Many Americans Like Online Religious Services but In-Person Still Preferred. https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2023/06/02/online-religious-services-appeal-to-many-americans-but-going-in-person-remains-more-popular/
- Sci-Tech Today. (2025). Online Church Statistics By Reasons And Facts (2025). https://www.sci-tech-today.com/stats/online-church-statistics-updated/
- WorldMetrics.org. (2025). Online Church Statistics: Market Data Report 2025. https://worldmetrics.org/online-church-statistics/
- Lifeway Research. (2024, September 12). Small Groups Remain Key Aspect of Churches’ Discipleship Ministry. https://research.lifeway.com/2024/09/12/small-groups-remain-key-aspect-of-churches-discipleship-ministry/
- Pew Research Center. (2025, February 26). Religious attendance and congregational involvement. https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2025/02/26/religious-attendance-and-congregational-involvement/
- ChurchTechToday. (2024, August). Has Your Church Stopped Streaming Online? Here’s Data For Why It Is A Mistake. https://churchtechtoday.com/church-online-attendance-trend/