A recent Bible Society report, The Quiet Revival, reveals a 56% rise in monthly church attendance across England and Wales from 2018 to 2024, growing from 3.7 million to 5.8 million. This increase is largely attributed to young adults, especially men, with 18–24-year-olds’ attendance quadrupling (from 4% to 16%). Male attendance rose from 4% to 21%, while female attendance increased from 3% to 12%.
This generational shift has altered church demographics, making younger congregations more ethnically diverse, with 32% of 18–54-year-old churchgoers from ethnic minority backgrounds, compared to 19% overall.
However, growth is not evenly distributed across denominations. The Church of England’s share declined from 41% to 34%, while Roman Catholic attendance rose from 23% to 31%, and Pentecostal from 4% to 10%. Among 18–34-year-olds, Anglicans now represent only 20% of churchgoers.
The report notes Generation Z’s openness to spirituality, contrasting the apathy of older generations. Over half of 18–24s engaged in spiritual practices recently, with 40% praying monthly. Yet, some also report struggles with Scripture: 35% say certain Bible passages undermine their faith, highlighting a need for better discipleship.
Bible engagement is linked to churchgoing: 67% of active churchgoers read Scripture weekly, while the number of non-churchgoing Christians is shrinking (27% in 2024, down from 32% in 2018).
Importantly, relationships play a key role in evangelism. Over one-third of young non-churchgoers say they would attend if invited by someone they trust.
The report suggests that young people are drawn to church not just spiritually, but in search of community, meaning, and mental health support.
The Chinese Christian community is also rapidly expanding, with 27 new congregations launched in response to migration from Hong Kong.
The report ends with four recommendations:
Policymakers should acknowledge churchgoers’ societal presence.
Churches must improve Bible discipleship.
Foster intergenerational dialogue.
Value authentic personal relationships.
Bible Society CEO Paul Williams described this movement as a “Quiet Revival”—low-profile but transformative for perceptions of Christianity in the UK.
