

19 Jun 25 – The State of the US Catholic Church Today
Jun 20, 2025
Dive into the current state of Catholicism in the U.S. as the hosts ponder the gaps between self-identified Catholics and those actively practicing their faith. They reflect on Juneteenth and dissect the Lord's Prayer, emphasizing sincerity and forgiveness. A Pew Research survey reveals intriguing insights into personal connections to the faith, while the need for compassionate outreach to lapsed Catholics emerges as a key theme. The discussion concludes with thoughts on nurturing a vibrant Catholic identity amidst rising secularism and demographic shifts.
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Authentic Prayer Matters
- Pray with a pure heart, avoiding vain repetitions and babbling as Jesus warned against pagan practices.
- Use the Our Father prayer as a model to connect intimately with God and seek forgiveness and deliverance from evil.
Catholicism’s Cultural Impact Lagging
- Nearly 50% of U.S. adults have personal or family ties to Catholicism, showing significant cultural impact.
- Yet many cradle Catholics lack fervent faith, limiting Catholic influence and attracting fewer converts.
Widespread Lukewarm Catholic Practice
- About only 13% of Catholics both pray daily, attend weekly Mass, and confess yearly, reflecting widespread lukewarm observance.
- Nearly half never attend confession, showing ignorance about sin and the sacrament's importance.