Political issues in the church have become familiar to many Americans who worship regularly. A Pew Research Center survey found that 66% of U.S. adults who attend services at least monthly heard clergy address at least one political or social issue in recent months. Abortion, Israel, and homosexuality ranked among the most common subjects, and many congregants heard clear moral or political messages.
Clergy most often spoke against abortion, against homosexuality, and in support of Israel. However, fewer worshippers heard messages supporting abortion rights, accepting gay and lesbian people, or criticizing Israel.
Abortion, Immigration, and Environment Shape Sermons
The survey of 1,391 regular service attenders ran from April 6-12, 2026. It also tracked messages on immigration, Iran, the environment, and transgender identity.
Many worshippers heard the clergy support immigrants and environmental protection. Fifteen percent heard messages welcoming immigrants, while 3% heard calls for stricter enforcement. Another 15% heard support for protecting the environment, while 3% heard opposition to environmental rules.
Messages on transgender identity moved the other way. Fifteen percent heard clergy oppose transgender identity, while 3% heard messages accepting transgender people.
Religious Groups Hear Different Messages
Catholics and White evangelical Protestants most often reported clergy comments on abortion. White evangelicals also stood out for hearing about homosexuality, while Catholics reported more sermons on immigration.
White evangelicals heard less about environmental issues than other Christian groups. About one in 10 reported recent clergy remarks on the environment, compared with about one-quarter among other major Christian groups.
White non-evangelical Protestants offered a notable contrast. They heard mixed messages on homosexuality and transgender identity, with acceptance appearing about as often as opposition.
Supporters and Critics See Different Risks
Political issues in the church also shape how worshippers judge clergy partisanship. Nineteen percent see clergy as mostly Republican, and 8% see them as mostly Democratic. But 44% remain unsure, and 27% see a political mix.
Supporters may see clergy engagement as moral leadership because faith traditions often address human dignity, war, family, and justice. Critics may worry that sermons blur spiritual guidance and partisan influence, especially when congregants cannot clearly identify political motives.
What Political Issues Do Americans Hear About in Church?
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