American Catholicism at a Crossroads: A Call to Action

Millions of Americans raised Catholic no longer identify with the Church. Mass attendance and sacramental participation have declined, priests and religious sisters are fewer, and confidence in institutional authority has been shaken. Younger generations increasingly approach religious affiliation as a personal choice rather than an inherited obligation.

In American Catholicism at a Crossroads, Gerald M. Gundersen draws upon contemporary research, historical developments, and Catholic theological reflection to examine the changing relationship between the Church and its people. He explores religious belief and practice, conscience and Church teaching, the role of women, institutional credibility, younger Catholics, and those who have left the Church. He also considers tensions within Catholic institutions and the challenges of reconciling tradition with changing circumstances.

Written out of respect for the Church and concern for its future, this book does not propose abandoning Catholic tradition. Rather, it calls for a more thoughtful response to the evidence of change-one grounded in intellectual humility, serious listening, deliberation, transparency, and responsible discernment.