Young Portuguese catholics and digital religious practices during lockdowns

This study investigates the religious practices and experiences of young Catholics (ages 15 to 34) in Portugal during the two Covid-19 lockdowns. It focuses on the adoption of digital religious practices, community engagement, and the effect on individual spirituality. Based on 1,099 valid responses, 17.6% of participants attended online celebrations more than once a week. While the use of digital tools increased during the lockdowns, over 50% of respondents had already sought digital religious content prior to the pandemic. The digital experience was perceived as more isolated by 42.6% of respondents, but nearly one-third viewed it as more profound. Despite the sense of isolation, the study reveals a strong connection to communities, as the parish/religious community played a key role in distributing digital content. Notably, 58.1% of young Catholics plan to continue digital religious practices even after the pandemic ends.