Why men are absent from the church: A deeper reflection

By

 Sebaggala Richard

The gender imbalance in churches, where women consistently outnumber men, is a significant and long-standing issue with many implications. Following my last article on the absence of men in the church, I received feedback asking me to explore the deeper reasons for this phenomenon. Many pointed out that the problem is not limited to the church. Men are also conspicuously absent from community meetings and  projects and even funerals, while they are visibly present in areas such as sports, professional networks and groups such as Rotary clubs. These observations raise critical questions: Why are men withdrawing from traditional communal and spiritual spaces? And what strategies can be used to bring them back?

This article explores the three main issues that commentators believe are critical in explaining the absence of men in the church: sex ratio imbalance, rationality vs. irrationality, and church doctrines. While these three factors provide valuable insights, it is also important to examine other possible reasons for male disengagement.

1. Sex Ratio Imbalance in society: Beyond the numbers

Globally, women tend to be slightly more represented than men due to differences in life expectancy and demographic factors. This imbalance is even more pronounced in Uganda, where women make up more than half of the population. However, these figures alone do not fully explain the significant gender gap in religious participation.  According to Christian (2012), the human sex ratio varies greatly between regions due to higher male neonatal mortality and the biological frailty of male infants, which results in a lower survival rate compared to female infants.

In societies where women are more involved in caring responsibilities such as childbirth and nursing, they often develop a stronger affinity for community activities, including involvement in the church. Functionalist views assume that societal norms reinforce these roles by viewing participation in religious events as an extension of traditional female duties. This cultural focus on the caring role may make church attendance feel more natural for women than for men, who may not see these spaces as fulfilling roles that match their experiences and societal expectations of masculinity.

Men also face pressures to conform to ideals of independence, confidence and control, which may conflict with the communal aspects of religious engagement. Research by Levitt (2003) suggests that church activities, such as Sunday groups, often reflect interests more associated with women, such as caring for children and participating in groups, which can alienate boys and men from a young age.

2. Rationality vs. irrationality: challenging stereotypes

The stereotype that men are more rational and therefore less receptive to religious teachings than women cannot be clearly proven empirically. Studies by Iannaccone et al. (1998) and Stark et al. (1996) suggest that the differences in religiosity are not due to rationality or emotional receptivity, but rather to socialisation and cultural narratives.

Men are often socialised to value independence and scepticism towards institutions, including religious institutions, which is consistent with perceptions of masculinity as self-sufficient and less inclined to be guided by religious authorities. Conversely, religious traditions often emphasise roles for women that involve caring and community building, making church environments feel more welcoming to women. However, this dynamic is not universal. In some branches of Judaism and Islam, men are more religiously active (Sullins, 2006), highlighting the variability between different cultural contexts.

3. Men are perceived as sinners: The influence of church teachings

Another factor is the association of men with sinfulness, particularly in relation to behaviours such as aggression or sexual misconduct. Churches that often emphasise sins traditionally associated with men can create an environment in which men feel judged or unwelcome. This perception is exacerbated when religious teachings do not resonate with men’s experiences or address their specific issues.

Broader context and additional insights

While these factors provide valuable insights, it is important to consider other causes of men's absence from the church, including the church's message, cultural expectations, societal changes and personal identity. Although Christianity has traditionally been male-centred, it has historically attracted women and marginalised groups. The Christian message of hope and liberation often resonates with people facing oppression. This may explain why women, who often experience other forms of social oppression, find these messages particularly relevant (Walter, 1990; Robert, 2006).

However, this does not mean that men are free from oppression or do not seek hope and liberation. It may be that many men do not recognise their need for such messages or do not perceive the offerings of Christianity as relevant to their lives. While men equally need hope and connection, they may not feel that the church's message speaks directly to their experiences. Furthermore, the public profile of the church, which is often dominated by verbal and contemplative practises, may not appeal to men who prefer action and tangible results.

Inclusive messages

To address this issue, churches can take a more inclusive approach that focuses on themes of grace, redemption and personal growth, rather than emphasising gendered moral failings. Expanding the narrative to include broader human experiences can help men feel included in the religious community. Pastor Bugeme Wilson’s approach to inclusive messaging fits well with the idea of broadening church narratives to be more inclusive. By welcoming secular members of the community, including celebrities and people who are often seen as "sinners"," he demonstrates his commitment to grace, redemption and personal growth — core themes that resonate across traditional religious boundaries.

This approach shifts the focus from condemnation and marginalisation to acceptance and support, creating a space where people from different backgrounds can find appreciation and belonging. It mirrors the concept of inclusive messaging by broadening the appeal of the church and showing that its message is relevant to all, not just those who fit into traditional moulds of piety. This can help men who may feel judged or disconnected from the teachings of the church to see themselves as part of the community and become more involved.

Socialisation, temporal attachment and identity

From an early age, boys and girls are socialised differently, which affects their engagement in church activities. Boys are often encouraged to be independent and assertive, while girls are pushed into a caring role that coincides with church participation. This early socialisation can lay the foundation for a lifetime of religious commitment or non-commitment.

Men, especially those who are in the workforce, often have time constraints or work schedules that conflict with worship times. Offering flexible worship options or men's groups that meet outside of traditional times could help reduce barriers to participation.

Successful church outreach to men often involves addressing issues relevant to modern masculinity, such as leadership, purpose and service to the community. Giving men the opportunity to take a visible, active role, such as through service projects or leadership positions, can counteract feelings of alienation and foster a sense of belonging.

Practical steps to involve men in the church and community

To counteract gender imbalance and create a more inclusive environment, church leaders and community organisers can consider these strategies:

Emphasise purpose, challenge and action: men are often driven by a sense of purpose and a desire to make a tangible difference. Churches can offer mission trips, community service projects or practical tasks that require action and problem-solving. Church involvement as a mission with clear goals can fulfill men’s desire for challenge and achievement.

Create male-friendly spaces and roles: Develop groups or ministries that focus on activities that appeal to men, such as sports leagues, hiking, or technical workshops. Offering leadership roles that match men’s skills and interests can also create a sense of ownership. In many churches, for example, there is a high participation of boys and men in tasks such as playing instruments during the service. This emphasizes the importance of creating spaces that utilize and extend these existing interests.

Encourage brotherhood and authentic connections: Building a sense of camaraderie is critical. Men’s groups, small teams or community events that foster authentic connections can create a comfortable entry point for men.  Activities such as men’s breakfasts, retreats or sports nights can help build these connections.

Customise worship and teaching methods: Incorporate more interactive elements into worship, such as visual aids, discussions and hands-on demonstrations. Focusing on teachings that emphasise practical application and relevance to the real world can make the church's messages more engaging.

Rethink the church environment: Review the physical and operational environment of the church to make it more inclusive. Simplifying worship materials, introducing modern technology and designing spaces that feel welcoming to men can help reduce barriers to participation.

Utilise men’s interests and skills: Incorporate activities that align with men’s hobbies and skills, such as sports, car maintenance or tech initiatives. By connecting church activities with men’s existing interests, you can create more opportunities for engagement.

Promote events that correspond to male interests: Organise events such as sports broadcasts, barbecues or outdoor adventures that correspond to the usual male interests. These events can serve as an introduction to the church community for men without putting them under pressure.

Conclusion

The gender imbalance in church and community participation is a complex issue rooted in societal norms, cultural expectations and individual perceptions. By understanding these factors and implementing targeted strategies, churches and congregations can create a more inclusive environment where men feel welcome, valued and encouraged to participate. With targeted efforts and a commitment to inclusivity, faith communities can work towards a balanced future that fully includes both men and women.