Recent surveys indicate a continued decline in the percentage of Catholics in Peru, even after the election of Pope Leo XIV, a Peruvian national. The proportion of Catholics has decreased while the number of Evangelicals and those with no religious affiliation has increased. Experts suggest that this trend is part of a larger religious transition in the country, with factors like the growth of evangelical churches and a distancing from religion among the youth playing a role. The new Pope's focus on family and unity, as noted by his former colleagues, may not immediately reverse the trend, which is influenced by long-term shifts in religious affiliation and perceptions of the Church.
6 days ago
A recent survey indicates a continued decline in the percentage of Peruvians identifying as Catholic, dropping from 63.5% in November 2024 to 60.2% in May 2025 1. Simultaneously, Evangelicalism is on the rise, now representing approximately 20% of the Peruvian population 1. The number of Peruvians identifying with no religion has also increased 1.
Several factors may be contributing to the decline of Catholicism in Peru. Scandals involving Catholic groups and clergy, such as the dissolution of the Sodalitium Christianae Vitae (SCV) and accusations against Cardinal Juan Luis Cipriani, may have negatively impacted the Church's image 1. Additionally, a shift towards a more personal form of faith, coupled with a perceived lack of a close pastoral approach by the Catholic Church, is also contributing to the decline 1. The rise in agnosticism, particularly among university students, further exacerbates this trend 1.
Despite the declining numbers, the election of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, generated positive emotions among many Peruvians 1. Prior to his election, Pope Leo XIV served as a missionary and pastored the diocese of Chiclayo, Peru from 2015 to 2023 3. During his time in Chiclayo, he demonstrated a strong commitment to families, education, and social welfare, particularly for low-income communities 3.
Experts suggest that Pope Leo XIV's election is unlikely to immediately reverse the declining trend of Catholicism in Peru 1. However, his focus on family values and social issues, as highlighted by a former diocesan colleague, may offer a path forward for the Church 3. The long-term impact of his papacy on the religious landscape of Peru remains to be seen 1.
How does the Church address societal shifts in faith?
The Church addresses societal shifts in faith through the Magisterium, which interprets and applies unchanging truths to new circumstances . This involves proclaiming the Gospel, adapting its expression to different times and cultures, and engaging in dialogue .
Here's a breakdown of how the Church approaches these shifts:
In summary, the Church addresses societal shifts in faith by upholding unchanging truths while adapting their expression, engaging in dialogue, and applying its social teaching to contemporary issues, always under the guidance of the Magisterium . This approach ensures fidelity to the Gospel while remaining relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of the world .