New spikes in Catholic conversions leave bishops questioning, "Why?"

This episode of 'Ask an Expert' on KCBS explores a surprising resurgence in Catholic conversions across the United States, with 70 dioceses reporting increases of 55% or more in new converts. Despite years of steady decline—where for every convert, roughly eight Catholics left—the current spike has puzzled bishops and religious leaders. Father Patrick Gilger, assistant professor of sociology and director of Loyola University Chicago’s McNamara Center for the Study of Religion, offers insight into this phenomenon, suggesting that young people are turning to Catholicism not just for spiritual answers, but for deep social needs like belonging, purpose, and emotional stability in an era marked by political polarization, technological alienation, and global uncertainty. He emphasizes that the distinction between spiritual and social needs is artificial, arguing that religion fulfills both simultaneously. The rise may also be influenced by the election of Pope Leo, the first American pope, who symbolizes a more relatable, inclusive leadership that resonates with younger generations. While the numbers of new converts still don’t offset past losses, the nature of these new adherents is different—more deeply committed and less culturally passive than previous generations. Gilger also discusses how social media acts as both a bridge and a barrier, with TikTok and Instagram influencers exposing young people to Catholic life, but also fragmenting communities through echo chambers. He highlights the Catholic Church’s internal diversity as a strength, allowing for dialogue across differences. He notes that Gen Z, though statistically the least religious generation, is responding to shared crises like pandemic trauma and climate anxiety with renewed spiritual seeking. The episode concludes with a call to action: religious institutions must double down on offering authentic, inclusive communities that meet the emotional and existential needs of a generation in crisis.