Survey: More Americans get their religion online

Jun. 4—WASHINGTON, D.C. — It's been clear for more than two years that the video technology that helped Americans stay in touch with relatives, friends and colleagues during COVID-19 lockdowns also helped many to connect with houses of worship. What wasn't clear, though, was how people felt about these virtual experiences.

Would they keep watching services on screens, even after they thought it was safe to attend in person? What did they like about joining services remotely? What didn't they like?

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