World

Africa overtakes Europe in Catholic population as global mumbers reach 1.422 billion

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 16/10/2026, 16:16:23 UTC.

Briefings

According to the Vatican's 2026 statistics, Africa's Catholic population surpassed Europe's for the first time, with 288 million Catholics in Africa versus 287 million in Europe. This represents a shift in global religious demographics where the continent now holds the majority of the Catholic faithful worldwide.

Key points

• Africa's Catholic population reached 288 million in 2026, surpassing Europe's 287 million.
• The Vatican's official statistics confirmed this demographic shift in October 2026.

Context

This finding marks a significant change in global religious demographics, with the Vatican's 2026 statistics confirming Africa's Catholic population surpassed Europe's for the first time.

Limitations

Data is limited to the Vatican's 2026 statistics, with no historical trends or future projections provided.

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