Hallelujah! He has risen! But, that is not the only thing that has risen in the world of Catholicism. Reports are surfacing about the shocking rise in new Catholic converts, especially among Gen Z. Since 1970, the United States has experienced a steady decline in the number of people who identify as Catholic. However, 2024 showed a steady plateau, meaning the decline seems to have slowed down significantly. Conversely, the number of people identifying as Catholic, has grown dramatically, especially among Gen Z men, with some dioceses reporting 30%, 40%, and even 70% year-over-year rising memberships.
What is Driving Gen Z Towards Catholicism?
Most experts point to generational events such as the COVID-19 pandemic as well as economic and societal turmoil in recent years as the reason for the drive towards Catholicism. The New York Post reports, “The Post spoke to several young new Catholics who cite the pandemic, the internet, and a distaste for ‘lax’ Protestant alternatives as reasons for turning to the faith.” In a hectic situation, people tend to look towards something stable and safe that they can turn to to guide them. Some turn to astrology for answers from above and others, Catholicism is the guidance they search for.
Catholicism As The Answer
Rooted in traditions that have lasted for centuries, Catholicism has guiding principles that give believers a blueprint on how to live. Which removes the stress that life can bring and, most importantly, hope in uncertain times. The belief among Catholics that there is a God above that loves them unconditionally and a promise of Heaven after death can far outweigh the despair that an uncertain world can bring.
What Does The Rise In Catholicism Mean?
At this point, it is hard to say. The overall numbers are still a net negative. However, the slowed decline combined with the upward trajectory of Gen Z could signal the beginnings of a generational shift from a majority atheist or agnostic society back to a more religious-leaning society in future years. This shift could signal a reversal of the “left-wing” dominant society to a more “right-wing” dominant society. Conversely, it could just be a small temporary blip led by internet trends that plateaus itself leading to a double plateau among falling and rising numbers, and the status quo is maintained.
Where Do We Go From Here?
This remains to be seen. Whether you are an atheist or anti-religion or you are pro-religion, this trend can potentially have an impact on you. The anti-religion side might see the rise as a concerning trend toward theological authoritarianism ala Al-Qaeda. The pro-religion side might see it as a victory for their worldview and a sign that their faith is justified. Whichever side you fall on, one thing is for certain; Whether it is a full-on reversal of society or just a temporary blip, a jump of this magnitude from this large of a group means these people desire a change and cannot be ignored.
