Mass Attendance: Where Did Everyone Go? Episode 494

In this episode, Niall sits down with Bishop Denis Nulty of Kildare and Leighlin to explore one of the biggest questions facing the Irish Church today: why has Mass attendance declined so dramatically over the past few decades?

From the 85% of Irish Catholics attending weekly in 1990 to just 35% by 2018, the downward trend is undeniable. Bishop Nulty reflects on the challenges facing parishes, including the lasting impact of Covid-19, the rise of online worship, and how many people have simply “gotten out of the habit” of Sunday practice.

But are these the only reasons? Together, Niall and Bishop Nulty look at the wider cultural, social, and spiritual shifts at play—and discuss what the Church can do to invite people back.

🙏 Whether you’re a regular churchgoer, someone who’s drifted away, or simply curious about faith in modern Ireland, this episode offers insight into why Sunday still matters.