Validation of a Scale for Measuring Christian Religiosity for Chinese Churches

Abstract

Religiosity plays a pivotal role in the spiritual journey of Christians, influencing not only their faith but also the development of churches in difficult times. The recent substantial drop in worshippers may have detrimental effects on the religiosity of Christians in Hong Kong. Hence, this study proposes to find out the religiosity of Christians in Hong Kong after the impact of social events and COVID-19 through developing a validated instrument concerning the specific context of churches in Hong Kong. The questionnaire was distributed online to Christians at different time slots in September 2024. Respondents were asked to complete an online version of the questionnaire. A total of 400 completed responses were received and analysed from Christians coming from 150 churches in Hong Kong. There are around 1000 churches in Hong Kong; the sample covers Christians from around 15% of the churches in Hong Kong. The questionnaire was confirmed by Confirmatory Factor Analysis using AMOS version 29 to have validity and reliability. Serving in the Church and the years of service have positive effects on religiosity. There is no significant difference between male and female after controlling for other variables such as experience of serving in the church.  Although churches in Hong Kong experienced a substantial drop in members after the social events and COVID-19, the Christians responding to this study show positive perceptions of their religiosity. The results of this study has cast light on what actions should be taken by churches in Hong Kong to fulfill the vision and mission of spreading the gospel and converting more people to Christianity. Importance should be attached to motivating more members to serve and pursue religiosity according to the Bible. The results of such action will have positive effects not only on the Church but also on the wellness of every Christian who follows the Church’s direction.