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
AP nullBy BOB SMIETANA

Regional

Gordon city council declines fireworks ban amid elevated fire risk

Despite ongoing concerns about wildfire risk, fireworks will be allowed within Gordon city limits this Independence Day after the city council did not approve a temporary ban.

Drowning death under investigation at Johnson Lake

Drowning death under investigation at Johnson Lake

Allen woman charged after allegedly driving into Merriman business

A 30-year-old Allen woman is facing multiple charges after authorities say she drove a pickup into a Merriman business.

Man sentenced to life in Winner killing, later commuted by Governor Noem, now charged in 14-year-old’s death

A 51-year-old Sioux Falls man who was sentenced to life in prison for a 1994 killing in Winner is now facing federal charges in connection with the death of a 14-year-old girl.