The results of an international study on young people, values and religion promoted by the Footprints research group were presented by the Pontifical University of Santa Cruz.
Editorial (01/03/2024 19:46, Gaudium Press) Nearly 5,000 young individuals aged 18 to 29 from Argentina, Brazil, Italy, Kenya, Mexico, the Philippines, Spain, and the United Kingdom participated in interviews aimed at gauging their religiosity and faith. Conducted by the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in conjunction with seven other universities worldwide, the results were unveiled last Thursday, February 29.
A notable finding from the research is the global surge in spirituality among young people. Particularly striking is the heightened spirituality observed in countries like Kenya, the Philippines, and Brazil, where 82% to 92% of youth identify themselves as “believers.” Even in nations experiencing secularization, such as Spain and Italy, where fewer young people identify as believers, interviewees displayed a profound faith conviction, viewing it not merely as tradition or custom. In these countries, 60% of young Catholics deem attending Mass and receiving sacraments, notably Confession and the Eucharist, as essential.
Some countries occupy an “intermediate” position in terms of youth faith manifestation, such as Mexico (71%) and Argentina (51%). Notably, a significant proportion of female believers was observed in countries like Kenya (93%), the Philippines (83%), and Brazil (81%), with a generally higher number of Catholic women (52%).
Professor Gema Maria Bellido, overseeing the Footprint project responsible for data collection, reported to Vatican News that “the majority of young people believe in God and perceive the Church positively, viewing it as a guiding force rather than a political or temporal institution.” Overall, the survey indicated a rise in civic consciousness and interest in societal issues among youth.
According to the presented dossier, religion and spirituality influence young individuals’ moral decision-making. While believers acknowledge the existence of sin over atheists, the majority (67%) believe conscience dictates right and wrong.
Regarding their perception of the Church, most young believers view it as an institution contributing to societal good (76%).
However, among self-identified “atheists,” interest in the afterlife and a nuanced understanding of suffering emerge, with higher percentages noted in Kenya and the Philippines. Even in these countries, where 70% of youth claim non-belief, prayer remains significant in their lives.
Compiled by Carlos Ruiz
