According to a new report by the Pew Research Center, a growing share of U.S. adults say religion is gaining influence in American life with the majority viewing this influence as positive.
The findings are based on a survey of 9,544 U.S. adults conducted from February 3rd to 9th, 2025.
The report shows a 13-point increase in the share of Americans who believe religion’s influence is rising. In February 2024, only 18% believed religion was gaining ground, compared to 31% this year – the highest level in 15 years.
Pew’s analysis also found that 59% of Americans hold a net positive view of religion’s role in society – either believing that religion’s influence is growing and that it is a good thing, or that it is declining and that this is a bad thing.
However, those who view religion’s influence positively also say they often find themselves at odds with mainstream culture, highlighting the widening gap between secular and faith-oriented perspectives in American public life.
The report adds that across most religious groups, a majority still say religion’s influence is declining with the exception of Jewish Americans. Yet even here, the trend shows a gradual shift, with more adults now perceiving that religion is regaining ground.
While the Pew survey focuses on the United States, similar patterns are emerging globally.
In Northern Ireland, a recent Iona Institute poll noted a revival of religious interest among young people. Meanwhile, France recorded a 45% surge in adult baptisms this year, with 10,384 new members entering the Catholic Church — a record high.