Catholic Church. How do you explain its resurgence in the United States?

Question

Enginn · Accepted Answer

The resurgence of the Catholic Church in the United States can be attributed to a variety of factors. Here are some key explanations for its resurgence:

1. Immigration: The influx of Latino immigrants, many of whom are Catholic, has contributed to the growth and vibrancy of Catholic communities in the United States. This demographic shift has bolstered the numbers and influence of the Catholic Church.

2. Charismatic Leadership: The appointment of charismatic leaders, such as Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis, has rejuvenated interest in the Catholic Church among Americans. These figures have drawn attention through their progressive stances on social issues and their ability to connect with diverse audiences.

3. Social Engagement: The Catholic Church's active involvement in social justice issues, including immigration reform, poverty alleviation, and environmental stewardship, has resonated with many Americans seeking a meaningful faith community engaged in addressing pressing societal challenges.

4. Evangelization Efforts: The church's renewed focus on evangelization and outreach initiatives has led to increased visibility and engagement with non-Catholics as well as disaffected Catholics.

5. Tradition and Ritual: Some individuals have been drawn back to the church by a renewed appreciation for its rich traditions, rituals, and liturgy that provide a sense of stability amidst societal changes.

These factors have collectively contributed to the resurgence of the Catholic Church in America by attracting new members while also re-engaging existing ones who may have become disconnected from their faith community.

BCRanger10 · Accepted Answer

Practicing Catholic here. So far as I'm aware, we are in fact not seeing a resurgence of the Catholic Church in the United States. Mass attendance has been dropping very rapidly over the last several decades; I've heard varying numbers, between 11% and 20% of baptized Catholics attend Mass every week. Many of them are older and won't live much longer. Not only that, but many Catholics either do not know or outright reject Church teachings on key issues.

You could argue that the groundwork is being laid for a resurgence. Many of the younger priests and seminarians are more conservative and orthodox, and a good number of them are also more devoted to tradition. Traditional parishes have younger and larger families (though even there, things are by no means perfect).

But as it is right now, unless you have information that I don't or you're seeing things that I'm not, the Catholic Church, particularly in the United States, is not, from an earthly perspective, in great shape.

thatkawaiiemogirly · Answer

For my personal experience... I had a very bad experience dealing with Catholics including Christians. And sadly with most "Christians." Not to go off subject even though I'm trying my very best to live a Christian life. As I may fall short at times. Since we are imperfect human beings. We all make mistakes and have weaknesses. But I don't justify living a sinful life. I don't judge people for what they do. And we aren't supposed to judge nobody mistakes and sins. Only The Creator Of All Things. This world is wacky and yeah there are some genuine or many out there who is trying to find God and Jesus. It does makes me feel happy seeing people trying to find God and Jesus. Because I have been through that journey before. Which I have found God and Jesus in my life. And I'm very grateful that I have too. I'm still trying my very best to maintain my relationship with God and Jesus. Regardless of all my mistakes/sins I may make daily. It's not always what we do by action but it's also our mindset. But the Bible does says that many false prophets had went out to the world and is spreading misinformation about God and Jesus. But anyways I only have been to a Catholic church a few times. It never sat well with me. It could have been the Catholic Church itself. I don't know but something is off putting. And I have felt that way in a Christian place before worship too. There's a lot of things I want to call out. Most people are hypocrites these days. I have met so many Christians and Catholics who were a bigot. And that's a hypocrite! Because how in the world are you going to be preaching people "to change into being a loving person" but you are a hateful person your ownself! And a lot of place of worships don't even donate good food to people. It's bad and spoiled food! And they pick and choose of they would feed. I have dealt with food pantries before. They kept giving people moldy food! And if people really loved God and Jesus. They would give fresh and healthy foods! I can't stand evil wicked people! The Bible does says there is no peace for the wicked. And I know it's a fact there's no peace for the wicked. But the truth has to be spoken out though. Peace and love! Seek truth always!

Skinhead-1979 · Answer

Oh, I cannot answer this. I don't live in the US.

From a European perspective; I don't you can say a 'resurgence' is happening. I don't know any numbers off my head, but last I checked... Throughout the last, lets say, half a century, the number of people who stated they were Catholic stayed fairly stable (286 million); however, the number of Protestants and Reformists have been steadily dwindling.

Age does play a role; Religion does not play a big role amongst most/ many young to middle-aged people... only the older generations; and they are now slowly but surely nearing the ends of their lives.

Dongie · Answer

I didn't hear of it declining. The Catholic church holds a lot of power. I would love to explore it's basement.

exitseven · Answer

I think that people are looking for something that is missing in their lives. They are finding that religion provides a connection with the community.

DrPepper12 · Answer

The Catholic Church has been in terminal decline! Those videos are not giving an accurate presentation of religiosity in America.

pethouse · Answer

It’s kinda wild. I remember hearing someone say something on the lines of “being Catholic is the new way kids are rebelling” or sun like that.

OddBeMe · Answer

People seem too quick to a judge a society’s morals.  We’ve never had less crime than today - especially rapes of young kids- unlike during the Catholic Church’s reign.

handsomelad70 · Answer

Bull. Younger folk are shunning faith as they see how their elders have misused it to vote for a corrupt rapist and grifter.

zagor · Answer

I don't think that is a thing. Too many revelations about priests boinking kids.

Pterodon · Answer

Illegal immigration

strateguy632 · Answer

It is not resurging

impalabill77 · Answer

I'm not sure. I will not go back though.

Sevenpointfive · Answer

yeah fucking right. nice try.

Catholic Church. How do you explain its resurgence in the United States?

Most Helpful Opinions

What Girls & Guys Said

What is driving the recent growth of Catholicism in America?

Catholic Church. How do you explain its resurgence in the United States?

Most Helpful Opinions

What Girls & Guys Said

What is driving the recent growth of Catholicism in America?

We're glad to see you liked this post.