# Why Some Catholics Are Turning Away
*2020-09-18*

> Bill and John discuss the decline in Mass attendance and the role of Church leadership, politics, and cultural shifts in alienating many Catholics.

## Opening Prayer

Bill and John begin with the Our Father and the Hail Mary, asking for God's guidance as they explore the challenges facing the Church today.

## Statistical Snapshot

The hosts note that the U.S. Catholic population grew from about 20 million in 1970 to roughly 33 million in 2019—a 60 % increase. Yet weekly Mass attendance fell from 71 % to 45 % of self‑identified Catholics, and regular (once‑a‑month) attendance dropped from 56 % to about 30 %. While the number of Catholics overall has risen, active participation has sharply declined.

## Why Are Catholics Disengaging?

Bill points to several factors: scandals in the Church, broader societal changes, and especially the mixed messages coming from Church leadership. He cites research showing many Catholics do not see a direct link between their political choices and their faith, and that only a small minority look for religious guidance in voting.

John adds that inconsistent statements from bishops and cardinals—some emphasizing moral issues like abortion, others downplaying them—create confusion. Examples mentioned include a bishop who silenced a well‑liked priest, Cardinal Dolan’s alleged private text mishap, and other leaders who appear to prioritize personal or political agendas over clear Catholic teaching.

## Political Entanglements

The conversation turns to how Catholic politicians are judged. The hosts argue that many Catholics feel the Church should speak plainly on life issues, yet some bishops remain silent, while others seem to accommodate political leaders regardless of their stance on abortion. They discuss the perception that pro‑life bishops receive little media attention compared with those who are more politically neutral.

## Cultural Shifts and the “New Normal”

Bill expresses concern over what he calls a “new normal” in media and culture, where LGBTQ+ themes are presented as standard. He references a story about a cardinal allegedly sending intimate messages to a male model, and the broader perception that the Church is tolerating or even promoting lifestyles contrary to its teaching. This, he says, fuels distrust among faithful Catholics.

## The Pandemic and Church Resources

The hosts note that COVID‑19 restrictions have closed many churches, limiting sacraments like confession. They observe that the Church, as a major recipient of U.S. government funds for social services, faces financial pressures that may influence how it responds to the crisis and to public criticism.

*When Church leaders send mixed signals, many Catholics feel alienated and turn away, underscoring the need for clear, consistent teaching rooted in the Gospel.*