One major reason for religion's growing appeal in the 1950s was: the desire to combat godless communism. huge new churches that sponsored social and recreational activities. widespread guilt over the country's material abundance. the fire-and-brimstone style of television preachers. tax breaks for people who joined churches.

I believe the answer is: the desire to combat godless communism

At that time, Religion was a major platform since communist countries openly accused churches as an establishment that allow discrimination and inequality to spread in society. Because of this, the teaching from the church has a very big appeal to the people who want to stand and oppose communism.