Faith Restored?

The Evolving Relationship Between Religion and Young Canadians

A Cardus Research Report, in partnership with the Canadian Bible Society

Across Canada, conversations about faith and spirituality of young adults have intensified in recent years. While public commentary suggests that younger generations are quickly abandoning faith, this new Cardus study offers a more nuanced picture. Drawing on multiple national surveys conducted in partnership with the Angus Reid Institute, as well as international data, Faith Restored? examines how Canadians aged 18–34 understand faith, participate in religious practices, and engage with questions of meaning.

This report examines if Canada is experiencing trends similar to the UK and the US, where some experts have noted a resurgence of interest in Christianity among young adults.

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A Few Key Research Findings

Belief in God or a higher power remains steady among Canadian young adults. In the 18-34 age group, 59 percent affirm belief in God or a higher power—only slightly lower than the national average.
Young adults attend religious services at comparable or higher rates than older age groups.
16 percent report attending weekly, compared to 10-12 percent among older Canadians.
Nearly half (49%) of Canadians aged 18-24 say they are “often lonely,” raising important questions about meaning, belonging, and community.
Canadians aged 18-34 make up nearly half (48%) of those who say they are interested in learning more about the Bible, are frequently using it, and regularly attending church.
While survey evidence hasn’t yet confirmed anecdotal reports of increased commitment in Canada, the report notes signs that decline in religious practice have slowed or halted in Canada, the UK, and the US, alongside continuing or increasing openness among younger generations.

Why This Matters

Canadian young adults are entering adulthood in a context of economic pressure, political polarization, loneliness, and questions of identity and meaning. This report helps illuminate the ways in which faith—whether practiced regularly, explored occasionally, or approached with uncertainty—continues to shape their outlook.

By presenting clear data and thoughtful analysis, Faith Restored? equips Christian leaders and communities to better understand the spiritual landscape facing today’s young adults.

Listen to Rev. Dr. Rupen Das, President of the Canadian Bible Society, as he reflects on why the Cardus report Faith Restored? matters for pastors and church leaders today—and how its findings can help churches respond thoughtfully to the spiritual questions young adults are asking.

Why This Cardus Research Matters for the Church Today

Too often, conversations about young adults and faith rely on assumptions. Faith Restored? offers clarity—research focused on Canadians aged 18-34 that helps church leaders respond to real pressures and deeper questions with Scripture and community.

Are Young Adults Really Leaving Faith? Data Tells a Different Story

Many assume young Canadians have turned away from faith—but the Cardus report Faith Restored? tells a more nuanced story. Drawing on recent data, this video highlights signs of growing openness among young adults and what that may mean for the Church today.

About the Report

Faith Restored? authored by Karen Stiller and Ray Pennings builds on previous Cardus research, including the Spectrum of Spirituality Index. It brings together Canadian and international data to provide a clearer picture of the spiritual posture of young adults today.

The study also draws on:

Three years of Angus Reid Institute polling
Cross‑border comparisons with American young adults
The global Patmos World Bible Attitudes Survey
UK research exploring shifts in church attendance among 18-24‑year‑olds

These findings offer churches, educators, policymakers, and faith communities insights into how younger Canadians think about faith—and what questions they are asking as they navigate uncertainty, cultural change, and personal challenges.