Brazil's Catholic Church Adapts to Declining Numbers

Brazil's Catholic Church Faces Declining Numbers: A Response to Changing Times Brazil's 2022 Census revealed a significant shift in religious demographics. The percentage of Brazilians identifying as Catholic has reached its lowest point in history, though they still constitute a majority. This decline has prompted the Catholic Church to reassess its approach. Ana Carolina Evangelista, a political scientist and director of the Institute for Religious Studies, sheds light on the church's strategies to adapt to this changing landscape. "The Catholic Church in Brazil is institutionally reacting to the loss of hegemony," Evangelista explains. "It's a Catholicism that's trying to modernize its language, adopt new communication methods, and connect with its faithful." The church's efforts include embracing new technologies and engaging in more inclusive dialogue. Pope Francis's visit to Brazil and his emphasis on international outreach have also played a significant role in this modernization. The church's response to the declining numbers underscores the ongoing evolution of religious practice in Brazil and the need for religious institutions to adapt to societal shifts. The ongoing efforts of the church to engage with its followers and modernize its approach offer a hopeful outlook for the future.