Declining middle class
Dear editor:
The middle class is classified by different parameters — education, wealth, environment and upbringing, social network, manners and other values. Economically, they have income between $40,500 to $122,000. During the current pandemic, 80% of the population is not able to afford food without a continuous income.
In the 1950s and ’60s, the middle-class workers and churches benefited from a growing economy. A 2012 study by Pew Research Center showed a change in family income between 1950 and 2010. The middle class peaked in the 1970s and losses accelerated in the 1980s.
Some middle-class families are dropping a class and so the loss of middle-class values. These values are taught by families with a stable income and family life. They are the backbone that keeps this country going with the values of hard work, self-discipline, honesty and aspiration to get things done. They support the church, are teachers, civic members, the PTA and school board, local government, police and fire departments, volunteer groups, community services and positions that keep society functioning. They pay more than their share of taxes and corporate welfare and more taxes percentage-wise than the rich.
Churches contribute to this decline with a narrow focus on hot button issues. The rich get richer, and the poor get poorer and the middle class decreases. Forty-six people own 50% of the world’s wealth, and 3% own 95% of all private land. Those hanging on have less disposable income to support churches and charity. The middle class has been the support foundation of churches and social services for centuries. They provide stability for families, community, and local and state governments. They feed and educate their children and have less child and spousal abuse. As their numbers decline so does the church. Churches will not survive without the middle class.
Ministers, members, and voters need to consider the total issues and impacts and all ramifications for present and future generations. It is more complicated than hot button issues. Data shows that the myopic and delusional will see Christianity a non-entity by 2050. The damage being done is accelerating the middle-class decline and the church.
Jerry Wayne Davis Hot Springs