Faith in the rise: how religion quietly reshapes Europe.
In a time so often defined by secularism, a quiet spiritual renewal stirred across Europe. From crowded arrows from Paris to the suburban streets of Stockholm, faith does not disappear – it evolves. In churches, mosques, temples and community rooms, a new chapter is written. It is not the Europe of dusty benches and declining congregations – it is a vibrant and pluralist belief and surprising growth.
Salisbury’s cathedral, an amazing example of Gothic architecture, is famous for the largest arrow in England.
The unexpected return of Christianity
Despite the decline predicted for a long time, Christianity has remarkable renewal pockets. In France, adult baptisms jumped almost 30% in just one year – from 5,463 in 2023 to more than 7,100 in 2024.
Many of those who choose faith are less than 25 years, signaling a generational change. In England and Wales, church attendance increased from 8% in 2018 to 12% in 2024, with an increasing number of young people who seek “something deeper” than modern materialism.
Pentecostal and evangelical churches, in particular, are flourishing. In Germany and the Netherlands, many of these growing congregations are directed by immigrants, bringing new dynamic expressions of faith and culture.
Islam and Judaism: resilient, growing and visible
The European Muslim population could reach 71 million by 2050. New mosques increase not only in capitals but in cities which were once considered as religiously. These are not only places of worship – they are centers for civic engagement, charity and the development of young people.
The Jewish communities, although small, continue to demonstrate extraordinary cultural resilience. Through Europe, synagogues expand educational awareness, promote interconfessional dialogue and find new ways to link young generations to ancient traditions.
Sikhism: faith in action
The Sikh community has become one of the major religious groups oriented towards the service of Europe. In the United Kingdom, Italy and Scandinavia, Gurdwaras (Sikhs Temples) have become hospitality centers, offering free meals (Langar), community programs and inclusive support to anyone in need.
In Norway alone, the Sikh population increased by almost 20% between 2014 and 2019. In a continent struggling with division, the Sikh principles of equality, service and dignity strike a powerful agreement.
The growth of Europe of Scientology
In recent years, the Church of Scientology expanded its presence in Europe, with large modern centers in major cities like London, Berlin, Madrid, Dublin and Brussels.
In 2024, a new center covering more than 8,800 square meters opened in the Grand Paris near the Stade de France, an event highlighted by David MiscavigeThe International Directorate of Religion.
The church is engaged in initiatives such as literacy campaigns, anti-drug education and help efforts in the event of a disaster, often collaborating with local and regional partners.
Opening of the Church of Scientology Paris by the Church of International Scientology
Bahá’ís and the spirit of unity
Faith Bahá’íe, based on the principle of the unity of humanity, has taken root across Europe. His communities, often small but devoted, are active in the empowerment of young people, peacebuilding and interconfessional work.
Without clergy and a decentralized structure, faith calls upon many people disappointed by the religious hierarchy. In cities like London, Vienna and Prague, Bahá’ís circles discreetly feed inclusive conversations on ethics, justice and the future.
The quiet expansion of Mormonism
The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day saints, often associated with the United States, has experienced regular European expansion. The United Kingdom, France, Germany and Scandinavia now have tens of thousands of saints of the last days.
In 2021, a new temple was announced in Oslo – the first in Norway. Known for their united communities and their strong family values, Mormons have an impact on those around them thanks to humanitarian service and personal awareness, especially in rural cities and neglected regions.
Panoramic view of Istanbul-Yeni Cami (the new mosque), Bridge Galata. Türkiye
A cultural and interconfessional alarm clock
Beyond individual religious groups, Europe is witnessing a broader cultural renaissance around religion. Basic interconfessional initiatives in London, Berlin and Amsterdam promote new spaces for dialogue and cooperation.
Meanwhile, a recent survey has shown that 81% of Europeans support the preservation of religious buildings – even if they do not personally practice a religion. Obviously, faith remains anchored in the emotional and cultural DNA of Europe.
More than a return – a transformation
Does religion really make a comeback-or does it change form? While some indicate new worships and growing conversions, others argue that the rise of spirituality on traditional religiosity tells a more complex story.
More and more Europeans now identify themselves as “spiritual but not religious” and the increase in secularism continues to shape public life. Critics warn that visibility is not necessarily equal to recovery – attendance remains low in many churches, and belief in Orthodox doctrines continues to decline.
However, something undeniably changes. Whether in the form of a mosque in a Swedish suburbs, a Sikh Langar in Milan, or a circle of young Bahá’í in Prague, religion in Europe is reinvented – not abandoned.
The new spiritual landscape
Religious life in Europe is no longer limited to ancient stone churches or Sunday sermons. It is reshaped by immigration, the curiosity of young people, digital awareness and a search for belonging in an increasingly fragmented world. The continent’s spiritual map is redesigned – with daring lines, bright colors and much more diversity than ever.
Faith in Europe is not dead. It just starts a new chapter.