Worship attendance at churches up for the first time in decades, according to new report

A new study from the Hartford Institute of Religion Research showed that the median-sized congregation in the U.S. grew from 60 people to 70 people, the first growth in average house of worship attendance in years

May 6, 2026Updated: May 6, 2026

By BOB SMIETANA

Regional

Les Schwab Grand Opening in Sidney celebrates the store's community ties

Sidney Girls' Golf takes third at the North Platte Golf Invite

WNCC volleyball reverse sweeps Casper

The Western Nebraska Community College volleyball team had their backs to the wall but came out swinging in the final three sets to reverse sweep Casper College Thursday at Cougar Palace.

Garden County handles Wallace

State

INTERVIEW: Nebraska State Fair Executive Director Jaime Parr

UNMC uses immersive technology to expand stroke education statewide

UNL unveils new Louise Pound sculpture honoring her academic and athletic legacy

Worship attendance at churches up for the first time in decades, according to new report

Regional

Les Schwab Grand Opening in Sidney celebrates the store's community ties

Sidney Girls' Golf takes third at the North Platte Golf Invite

WNCC volleyball reverse sweeps Casper

Garden County handles Wallace

State

INTERVIEW: Nebraska State Fair Executive Director Jaime Parr

UNMC uses immersive technology to expand stroke education statewide

UNL unveils new Louise Pound sculpture honoring her academic and athletic legacy

Nebraska lawmaker, UNO professor weigh in on AI safety concerns

Pink postcard taxpayers ask where's the tax relief?

Warren Buffett gives up chairman title at Berkshire Hathaway in the next step of his succession plan

Sports

Huskers utilize strong run game, improves pass rush in win over UND

Nebraska rolls by North Dakota 34-7, heads into conference play 3-0

Wayne State dominates first-ever game against Jamestown

Sidney Shuts Out Adams Central, Moves to 4-0

Meridian pushes past Palmyra in third set to capture MUDECAS B Division crown

Holgorsen challenging Nyziah Hunter in practice

Ag & Outdoor

Nebraska's congressional delegation critical of Trump plan to lower beef prices

Outdoor notes: Birding Bowl inspires generous next step

Outdoor notes: Tips for enjoying water safely this summer

Outdoor notes: Rare lake sturgeon made 681-mile swim

Outdoor notes: Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this summer

Ag notes: Cattle placements rise 6% during April