Great American Media Opened Church Nominations

The network launched an initiative to provide Christmas outreach support to small-town congregations.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Christianity

Screen-print poster illustration of a church steeple silhouette against a layered dusk horizon, evoking community spirit. — Great American Media has launched the 'Great American Christmas' initiative, inviting nominations to provide support for small-town church community outreach programs. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe small local institutions are still essential to your community's well-being?

Great American Media has opened nominations for the Great American Christmas: Small-Town Churches initiative. This program seeks to provide tailored support for community outreach and Christmas programming to selected churches across the nation.

Why it matters

The initiative aims to recognize and assist smaller congregations that serve as vital sources of faith and encouragement within their local communities. By focusing on smaller churches, the program addresses a segment of religious life that makes up the majority of U.S. congregations.

Approximately 70% of U.S. congregations report having 100 or fewer attendees. In 2025, the median weekly attendance reached 70, reflecting a slight increase from the pre-pandemic median of 65.

The players

Great American Media

This media company is the organization responsible for launching the Small-Town Churches initiative to support community outreach.

The details

To participate, church members, pastors, ministry leaders, and neighbors must submit descriptions detailing their church's community service and local significance. Nominators are required to explain how additional support could specifically expand their church's Christmas outreach efforts.

2020: Census data recorded 46 million Americans living in rural communities.
2025: Median U.S. weekly congregation attendance rose to 70.
October 15, 2026: Nominations for the initiative close.
October 27, 2026: Selected churches are expected to be announced.

Culture Shift

This initiative recognizes the prominence of small-scale worship centers in American life, mirroring the 2025 median weekly U.S. congregation attendance of 70. It follows the pattern set by current attendance data, which underscores the importance of the 70% of congregations that maintain 100 or fewer members.

Congregation members and leaders can participate by submitting nominations to potentially receive resources for holiday community programs. The effort encourages those in rural areas to highlight how specific support can improve their local Christmas outreach activities.

The takeaway

Smaller congregations play a central role in the social and religious fabric of rural American life. By nominating their local church, community members can help bring additional resources to programs that provide encouragement and support during the holiday season.