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Why 40% Are Leaving the Church (It’s Not Because They’re “Lazy”) (Rick B)

Table of Contents: Why 40% Are Leaving the Church (It’s Not Because They’re “Lazy”) (Rick B)

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Are you or someone you love navigating a faith crisis? You are not alone. Jeff Strong says 40% are leaving the Church.

40% are Leaving?

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A historic shift is transforming the religious landscape. According to Jeff Strong’s new book Torn, nearly 40% of members are stepping away from their faith communities. But why is this happening, and how can we better understand and support those we love who leave? In this video, we unpack the insights from four groundbreaking books: Torn, Goodbye Religion, Bridges, and The Next Mormons. We are tackling the tough questions and busting the harmful myths that say people leave because they are “lazy learners,” easily offended, or simply want to sin. The reality is far more complex.

For many, a faith transition is an agonizing, lonely, and deeply principled journey triggered by a desire for moral integrity rather than a loss of morals. We will compare the data across these four sources to explore the profound emotional toll of a faith crisis, while offering actionable, research-backed advice for current members. Discover how shifting our focus from “fixing” doubts to listening, empathizing, and providing unconditional love can help build bridges and keep our families together.

Listen now to learn how we can transform judgment into compassion and better minister to those we love!

Don’t miss our other conversations on faith crisis.

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Get more information on the people and things discussed in this episode:

  • Guest: Rick Bennett
  • Theology: Faith Crisis, Faith Journey
  • Tags: best Mormon history podcast, Church History, disaffiliation, Gospel Tangents, GT Podcast, leaving the church, Mormon

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Next ExpisodeKhaki vs. Vanity: Double Standard in Garment History (Jessica Finnigan/Nancy Ross 3/4)Next

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Is it true that 40% are leaving the Church. Jeff Strong claims that in his new book "Torn."
  • Date: May 18, 2026
  • Guest: Rick Bennett
  • Theology: Faith Crisis, Faith Journey
  • Tags: best Mormon history podcast, Church History, disaffiliation, Gospel Tangents, GT Podcast, leaving the church, Mormon
  • Posted By: RickB

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Rick Bennett, Host

Rick Bennett is the friendly host of Gospel Tangents LDS Podcast: The Best Source for Mormon History, Science, and Theology. Book Rick for your fireside or conference.

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Rick Bennett, Host of Gospel Tangents

Rick Bennett is the friendly, independent historian at the heart of Gospel Tangents LDS Podcast: The Best Source for Mormon History, Science, and Theology. When he isn't interviewing Mormon scholars, prophets, and others, he is teaching math and statistics at Utah Valley University. He also freelances as a research biostatistician in the fields of Dermatology and Traumatic Brian Injuries, as well as in the network television/cable T.V. industries as a sports statistician. Rick holds a Master of Statistics Degree from the University of Utah.

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