Mastodon
RNS logo

Graphic of the Week | Catholic Views on Church Practice and Policy

In just a few weeks, the College of Cardinals will choose the next pope, following the resignation of current Pope Benedict XVI at the end of the month. As the Cardinals deliberate over the next leader of the world's largest denomination, what do Ameri...
Amelia Thomson-DeVeaux

In just a few weeks, the College of Cardinals will choose the next pope, following the resignation of current Pope Benedict XVI at the end of the month. As the Cardinals deliberate over the next leader of the world’s largest denomination, what do Americans think about the Catholic Church’s public policy stances, and how many believe the Church should preserve traditional beliefs and practices?

Our new graphic shows that majorities of Catholics – including those who attend church most frequently – believe that in its statements about public policy, the Church should focus more on social justice issues, rather than abortion and the right to life. And while a majority of Catholics agree that the Church should adjust its beliefs and practices in light of modern circumstances or adopt modern beliefs and practices, there are some divisions according to frequency of attendance.

GotW Catholics on Catholicism 2 19 2013 Final Graphic of the Week | Catholic Views on Church Practice and Policy


No paywalls here. Thanks to you.
As an independent nonprofit, RNS believes everyone should have access to coverage of religion that is fair, thoughtful and inclusive. That's why you will never hit a paywall on our site; you can read all the stories and columns you want, free of charge (and we hope you read a lot of them!)

But, of course, producing this journalism carries a high cost, to support the reporters, editors, columnists, and the behind-the-scenes staff that keep this site up and running. That's why we ask that if you can, you consider becoming one of our donors. Any amount helps, and because we're a nonprofit, all of it goes to support our mission: To produce thoughtful, factual coverage of religion that helps you better understand the world. Thank you for reading and supporting RNS.
Deborah Caldwell, CEO and Publisher
Donate today