As Hispanics emerge as the largest minority group in the U.S., their influence on faith and national life is growing rapidly.

A new report by the Barna Research Group says 84% of Hispanics describe themselves as Christians. One-third of Hispanics in the U.S. identify as practicing Christians according to an evangelical definition of faith.

More traditional than other groups in America today, especially in the area of family life, 69% of Hispanics surveyed say a child is better off if the parents are married. Two-thirds would forbid divorce except for unfaithfulness or abuse.

According to Barna's survey, 68% of Hispanics identify as Catholics and 16% as Protestants. Overall, 61% of all Hispanics say they have made a personal commitment to Jesus Christ that is still important in their lives today. Charismatic expressions are important in faith practices: 36% of Catholic Hispanics identify as charismatic, as well as 56% of Protestant Hispanics.

While Hispanics say the church is important in the ...