For years, we’ve been told that religion is declining and that faith holds society back. But what if the data tells a completely different story?

In this episode of the City of God, Dr. Rob Pacienza welcomes Dr. Byron Johnson, Distinguished Professor at Baylor University and one of the world’s leading researchers on faith and human flourishing. Drawing on decades of research and one of the largest global flourishing studies ever conducted, Dr. Johnson explains why faith consistently produces stronger families, healthier communities, greater purpose, and better mental health.

You’ll hear about:
● Why the “death of religion” narrative is misleading
● How faith strengthens marriages, families, and communities
● The surprising connection between church attendance and human flourishing
● Why loneliness and isolation are fueling today’s mental health crisis
● What the research reveals about living a meaningful and flourishing life

Dr. Johnson’s message is clear: faith transforms individuals, strengthens communities, and helps people flourish. His research offers powerful evidence that biblical principles are not only spiritually true but also produce measurable benefits for society.