A national survey of over 11,000 young Catholics in Brazil reveals a strong desire for deeper doctrinal formation, a more reverent liturgy, and a reduced focus on sociopolitical issues within the Church. The study, conducted in 2025 by the National Conference of Bishops of Brazil (CNBB) and other partners, was presented to the CNBB’s Permanent Council.
Among the key findings, youth identified holiness and the Christian faith as their top interests, while a perceived lack of reverence in the liturgy and excessive politicization deterred their participation in Church life.
Patrícia Espíndola de Lima Teixeira, the research coordinator, noted that the results reflect a generation thirsty for depth and authenticity. ‘This is not about conservative versus progressive,’ she said, ‘but about overcoming polarization and living out unity in diversity, as the body of Christ.’
Layla Kamila, coordinator of the Jovens Conectados team for the CNBB, emphasized that young people want a Church centered on Jesus Christ, the Eucharist, and solid faith formation, without abandoning the social dimension of the Gospel. The study aims to inform pastoral discernment and evangelization efforts across Brazil.
