Young Catholics Embrace Faith in Global Revival Trend

A significant trend is emerging within Catholic communities worldwide, as a growing number of young people are either returning to or discovering the depths of their faith. This revitalization is particularly evident among those under 25, who are increasingly engaging with the Church and its teachings. According to a report by The Times in 2024, attendance at church among young adults aged 18-24 has risen from just 4 percent in 2018 to 16 percent in 2024. Notably, the figures for young men increased from 4 percent to 21 percent, while young women saw a rise from 3 percent to 12 percent.

The Catholic Church is responding to this resurgence with initiatives like World Youth Day, which gathers young people aged 18-35 every four years. In 2023, this event drew an impressive 1.5 million attendees to Lisbon, Portugal, for a final Mass celebrated by the late Pope Francis. The enthusiasm observed at such events highlights a vibrant community eager to express their faith.

As a newly qualified primary school teacher in my mid-20s, I am enthusiastic about being part of this movement. Currently, I am preparing to join Bishop Fintan Gavin and 50 other young individuals from the Diocese of Cork and Ross for the Jubilee of Youth pilgrimage event in Rome, welcoming the invitation from our new pope, Leo XIV. Being part of these gatherings is invigorating and fosters a sense of belonging among participants.

Online Catholic influencers and digital missionaries are also playing a crucial role in connecting faith with contemporary culture. They creatively engage the younger generation, making the Church’s teachings more accessible. Nonetheless, there is a challenge: many Catholic communities function like social media algorithms, rewarding only those who actively seek them out. While those who engage can find various activities, including pilgrim hikes, prayer communities like Youth 2000, and events such as CONNECT in Cork City, those outside these circles often remain unaware of such opportunities.

The Church has an opportunity to enhance its outreach to young adults by actively sharing and displaying their faith in the wider community. By doing so, they can recharge the “faith battery” of those who attend. Returning from these events often leaves participants with renewed hope and vigor for the Church’s future. This experience encourages attendees to invite friends and discuss their faith journeys, fostering a supportive environment.

To attract more young people, the Church must venture beyond its walls, engaging with individuals in schools, colleges, and workplaces. It should listen attentively to the hopes, doubts, and convictions of young adults. In an age where knowledge is readily available, blind faith is no longer sufficient. The Church must be willing to face scrutiny and confidently articulate its core values.

Young Catholics are eager to find joy in their faith communities. They can draw inspiration from figures like Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, who exemplified how a joyful faith can enrich a young person’s life. Blessed Carlo, soon to be canonized, was a 15-year-old who balanced his love for soccer and video games with a commitment to daily Mass. Blessed Pier Giorgio, who died on July 4, 1925, exemplified a zest for life and a dedication to helping the less fortunate, and he is also set for canonization later this year.

The Church should prioritize creating spaces where young individuals can grapple with profound questions. Inviting young people to participate in community efforts and support charitable organizations like the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul can foster a sense of belonging. The goal is not to reinvent the Church but to rediscover its essence—bold in truth, courageous in justice, radical in mercy, and steadfast in love.

Young people are looking for the fullness of the Gospel, not a diluted version. They desire a Church that clearly addresses spiritual matters while also confronting pressing issues such as climate change, mental health challenges, and social isolation. The late Pope Francis articulated this need during World Youth Day in 2023, urging, “Will the mighty of the earth listen to this youthful enthusiasm that wants peace?”

The Church is at a pivotal moment, with a chance to not only welcome young people but to walk alongside them, challenging and being challenged in return. As the revival continues, the active participation of the youth will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Catholic Church.