As many are celebrating Easter on Sunday, a recent study shows that religion is on the decline both across America and here in Maine. (WGME)
PORTLAND (WGME) – As many are celebrating Easter on Sunday, a recent study shows that religion is on the decline both across America and here in Maine.
According to that same study, Maine is one of the least religious states in America.
Molly Shen just left the First Parish here in Portland on Easter Sunday.
She attends church here every year on this holiday.
“To me it’s really a day to be with family and to celebrate kind of a sense of rebirth and coming of spring,” said Shen.
According to a survey conducted by Pew Research, nearly 30 percent of American adults do not affiliate with any religion.
However, most people in that survey say even though they don’t affiliate with a certain religion, they do believe in God or another higher power.
Here in Maine, 34 percent of adults say religion is “very important,” while 21 percent say it’s “not at all important.”
Shen says her religious views have taken new shape over time but still frequently goes to church here at first parish.
“I used to be very religious, and Easter was a big holiday,” said Shen. “Now I consider myself spiritual not so much religious.”
According to another Pew study, of Mainers surveyed, 22 percent say they go to church at least once a week. 47 percent say they never go.
Maine is in the top five least religious states in the country according to that research.
Shen says she’s happy to have found her own way to commemorate Easter.
“I still celebrate in my own way,” said Shen. “Walk on the beach, coming to church.”
A link to the Pew Research study on adults in Maine can be found here and the study on the religious landscape in America on be found here.
