Survey Reveals Polarization Among U.S. Catholics Towards Pope Francis: Pew Research Center

Title: U.S. Catholics Divided on Pope Francis, Church Reform, Survey Shows

In a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, it was revealed that U.S. Catholics are more polarized than ever in their views of Pope Francis and church reform measures. Despite this division, a majority of Catholics on both ends of the political spectrum still hold a favorable view of the pope.

The survey found that three-quarters of U.S. Catholics have a favorable view of Pope Francis, with a significant difference in favorability ratings between Catholic Democrats and Republicans. While nearly 9 in 10 Catholic Democrats expressed favorable views, just under two-thirds of Catholic Republicans said the same, marking the largest partisan gap in approval of Francis since his papacy began.

The survey also highlighted differences in support for church reform measures among U.S. Catholics. While majorities of Catholics supported reforms such as allowing birth control use and ordaining women priests, there were variations based on factors such as Mass attendance, partisan affiliation, race, ethnicity, age, and gender.

Notably, the survey showed that Hispanic Catholics are now a third of the U.S. Catholic population, with white non-Hispanic Catholics declining in numbers. Hispanic Catholics were also shown to be younger on average and more likely to say religion is important in their lives.

Overall, the survey shed light on the complex and evolving landscape of U.S. Catholicism, with differing views on Pope Francis and church reform reflecting broader societal divisions.