The trend of Roman Catholicism in Europe is currently on a decline, contrasting with increases in other parts of the world. Recent data indicates that Europe experienced a reduction of approximately 474,000 Catholics in 2022, continuing a multi-year trend of decreasing numbers of Catholics on the continent. This decrease has been seen alongside a global decline in the number of priests and religious personnel, with Europe experiencing significant losses in these areas as well
Aleteia
Catholic News Agency
Evangelical Focus
.
While Europe shows this downward trend, other regions, notably Africa and Asia, have seen growth in Catholic populations. Africa, in particular, has recorded significant increases, adding millions of new Catholics each year. This growth aligns with increases in the number of priests and seminarians in these regions, pointing to a more vibrant and expanding Catholic presence there
Aleteia
Catholic News Agency
Evangelical Focus
.
Overall, the dynamics of Roman Catholicism are shifting globally, with declines in traditional strongholds like Europe and growth in other parts of the world.