In a surprising turn of events within Britain’s religious landscape, a new report by the Bible Society reveals a “quiet revival” in church attendance — and Catholics are emerging as the frontrunners of this spiritual resurgence, particularly among young people.

While traditional Christian identity continues to decline across the UK — with the 2021 census showing Christians making up less than half the population for the first time — actual church attendance paints a different picture. A growing number of Britons, especially under 25s, are turning to faith and participating actively in church life. Significantly, Catholicism is now outpacing Anglicanism among young worshippers.

The most striking revelation is the dramatic rise in the number of Catholic churchgoers aged 18 to 34. In 2018, Anglicans made up 30% of this group, Catholics 22%, and Pentecostals 10%. By 2024, Catholics had more than doubled their share to 41%, while Anglicans declined to just 20%. Pentecostals now follow closely at 18%.

This shift marks a potential historic turning point. For the first time since the Reformation, Catholicism could soon become Britain’s largest Christian denomination in terms of active worshippers.

Across all age groups, the Catholic share of regular churchgoers rose sharply from 23% in 2018 to nearly 31% in 2024. Meanwhile, Anglican participation fell from 41% to 34%.

The report highlights a spiritual revival led not by cultural Christianity, but by genuine faith and religious practice. According to polling, 16% of 18 to 24-year-olds now attend church at least once a month — a remarkable fourfold increase from just 4% in 2018. Much of this growth comes from ethnic minority communities, who bring vibrancy and commitment to the pews.

Dr Rhiannon McAleer, director of research at the Bible Society, said the findings show that while fewer Britons may identify as Christian, those who do are “practising their religion more intentionally.” She notes that for decades, many simply ticked the “Christian” box without engaging in faith. “Now, we are seeing a faith that is alive, chosen, and practiced — especially among young Catholics.”

Stephen Bullivant, professor of theology at St Mary’s University, adds that Catholicism has shown resilience by drawing strength from its immigrant communities. “Catholicism is doing the least worst among the major churches,” he said, pointing to its ability to attract and retain worshippers.

Though Sunday Mass numbers have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels, signs of recovery are clear. Attendance in England and Wales rose from 390,000 in 2021 to 555,000 in 2023. While still short of the 702,000 in 2019, this upward trend signals renewed engagement.

Among the growing number of young people turning to faith is Raf Francis, 23, from Birmingham. He shared how he rediscovered belief during a difficult academic period. “I failed all my mock exams twice,” he said. “I was very downhearted.” But while revising for his GCSEs, he turned to faith. He ended up excelling in his final exams and was baptised in 2022.

Though he now attends an Anglican church, his story reflects a broader movement: young people are embracing faith not because of tradition, but because of its personal power and relevance. “The main thing I like about church is the fellowship and experiencing God in that moment,” Raf said.

If current trends continue, Catholicism is poised to become the dominant Christian denomination in Britain for the first time in over 500 years. With its growing presence among young people and its deep roots in immigrant communities, Catholicism is not just surviving in Britain — it is thriving.

As the quiet revival unfolds, one thing is becoming clear: while cultural Christianity may be fading, a new, vibrant generation of practising Catholics is rising — full of conviction, faith, and hope.