Both articles highlight a rise in regular church attendance, with young men particularly drawn to the faith's traditions and its sense of certainty. Jesuit priests Fr David Stewart SJ in Edinburgh and Fr Kensy Joseph SJ in London have both seen this shift first-hand and were invited to share their insights with the media.
In the Reuters article titled "Catholicism spreads amongst young Britons longing for 'something deeper", Fr David Stewart SJ, a Jesuit priest based in Edinburgh, reflects on what he’s witnessed since founding a young adults’ Catholic group at the Jesuit Church of the Sacred Heart in Edinburgh three years ago:
"They're looking for something deeper", he says.
What began with about 30 participants has now grown to over 100 regular attendees at Sunday evening Mass and over 200 members in a WhatsApp group. He notes that most of these young adults had no prior religious background, with approximately 60-80% being men, many working in software and financial services. For some, attendance marks a rejection of the culture of toxic masculinity, opting instead for "fellowship, tolerance, and service of others".
In London, Fr Kensy Joseph SJ has observed a similar pattern. Speaking to The Economist for their article "Young British men are turning to Catholicism in surprising numbers", Fr Kensy, who helps run the young adult ministry in London, notes a significant rise in young adult engagement, with around 180 young adults now attending Mass every Sunday at Farm Street Church.
For those interested in exploring or deepening their Catholic faith, Jesuit Young Adult Ministries (YAM) creates spaces for people aged roughly 18-35 to reflect, connect, create community and ask big questions in an open, welcoming environment. Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, YAM encourages to notice where God might be at work in your everyday life.
In London, based at Farm Street Church, the ministry offers a weekly Young Adult Mass, social events such as MAGIS Metro and Second Sunday Walks, music opportunities including the YAM Choir, as well as pilgrimages and retreats. For more information or to get involved, visit: Jesuit Young Adult Ministries.
In Edinburgh, the programme centres on 'The Seven', a Sunday 7pm Mass with young adults actively participating in ministries. It also includes monthly faith formation sessions called the First Sunday Circle, individually guided retreats, spiritual guidance, social events, outreach supporting the homeless, and an annual pilgrimage. To learn more or get involved, visit Edinburgh Jesuit Church Young Adult Ministry.
