Fewer and fewer people in church, data at historic lows

Today we want to talk to you about a very topical phenomenon which has reached its historical peak especially in recent decades: the estrangement from church. In recent years in Italy it has been recorded that only 18,8% take part in religious services at least once a week. Not to mention the 31% of people who only went to church for special events, such as weddings or funerals.

The reasons for leaving the Church

Una negative turn this phenomenon was also given by the Pandemic, which saw Churches close and all forms of religious functions paused.

But the reasons for this estrangement are many and also due to a factor of radical life change. The people are more and more focus on themselves and material goods and this type of mentality leaves little space in daily life to devote to religion.

Another reason could be found among other ways to explore spirituality, such as meditation, yoga or alternative practices such as new-age. These options offer an experienceto more staff and less formalized than the church.

Also, there are downsides associated withimage of the church itself. Scandals of sexual abuse, hypocrisy and intolerance on the part of some religious institutions have contributed to alienating many people from religious practice. These factors have worn down relationships confidence of the people against the churches, making it more difficult for the people identify with them.

Many people are trying to find their own spiritual path and are looking for a religion or practice that fits them better personal beliefs. This may involve experimenting with different faiths or abandoning traditional religious practices altogether.

Beyond that, the company is becoming more and more multicultural and multireligious. Religious diversity offers a broader perspective on spirituality and many people feel drawn to different spiritual traditions and practices.

The emptying of churches involves all age groups, but it is particularly evident among the young. This trend has prompted the Italian Church to give particular attention to the recent World Youth Day, held in Lisbon, which was attended by approx 70 young Italians. In this way the church is trying to reverse this trend and to reshape the way of living religion, approaching a model that pushes the new generations to return to get closer to God.