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ReligionAfrica

Why the Catholic Church is seeing a new wave of converts

Melissa Chan
May 3, 2026

Young people are rediscovering the Catholic Church, driven by social media, loneliness and a search for meaning. Colleen Dulle, who covers Catholic and Vatican news, explains why Catholicism is drawing fresh attention.

https://p.dw.com/p/5Cy5N

Catholicism is gaining fresh visibility worldwide, with signs of renewed interest driven largely by younger generations. While long‑term data still points to stagnation, anecdotal evidence shows rising conversions and packed churches, particularly in major US cities.

Experts link this trend to loneliness, post‑pandemic soul searching, social media influence and a desire for community.

At the same time, the Catholic Church is expanding rapidly in Africa, where population growth and its role in providing education and health care are key drivers, reshaping the global face of Catholicism.