While Scotland is now a majority atheist country, there are signs that people are returning to organised religion
There are signs that Scots are turning back to religion as they seek purpose and meaning in a changing world(Image: Arterra/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
The Scottish census of 2022 suggested that atheists outnumbered believers for the first time ever. But there are signs that organised religion is experiencing something of a comeback.
The Church of Scotland confirmed this week that new members had nearly doubled since the Covid pandemic. Figures suggest the number of new members in 2025 was 820, a jump from 428 in 2021.
A report to the General Assembly also shows that 27% of congregations welcomed new members last year, with Church leaders describing the rise as “very encouraging” and “evidence that God is active in the Kirk”. Rev David Cameron, convener of the Assembly Trustees, said it is clear there is “deep spiritual hunger” within parishes with 3,292 professions of faith between 2021-2025.
He said: “It’s very encouraging to see the number of Professions of Faith rising again across the Church of Scotland. I believe this growth reflects the fact that even in uncertain times there remains a deep spiritual hunger within our parishes.
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“The increase across a variety of congregations is the fruit of welcome through relationships, faithful worship, and acts of care. The challenge is not simply to celebrate growth but to nurture it well.
“We need to continue investing in discipleship and intergenerational ministry by creating spaces where younger people can explore faith honestly and belong meaningfully. If we are willing to remain outward looking and bold in our mission in Christ’s name, then I believe this upward trend can become part of a deeper renewal in the life of the Church.”
The General Assembly of the Church of Scotland takes place this week(Image: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)
It follows reports last year that ‘Gen Z Catholics’ were behind a rise in Church attendance across the UK. Polling by YouGov, showed the 18-24 demographic was the second largest group of churchgoers in the UK, having risen from 4% to 16% between 2018 and 2024.
The figures also found 25 to 34-year-olds have seen an increase from 4% to 13% in church attendance during the same time period. A report to the General Assembly, which opens on Friday, suggests there is “growing spiritual curiosity among young people” but concedes that the Kirk “currently has limited reach”.
It proposes targeting areas with large student populations with a ‘Resource Church’ scheme in Glasgow. This will use hubs to “serve a wider purpose than a single local parish and will gather people for worship and community”.
The report states: “As many congregations have closed in areas with high student populations, we propose targeted investment in Resource Churches – vibrant, city-centre hubs that offer young adults a welcoming environment in which to explore or reconnect with faith.”