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 lives of their children and grandchildren, its influence is relative: 21% say the church does “very well” at influencing youth, but that’s far behind other influencers: family (66%), friends (62%), educators (43%), and gangs (42%).
The numbers are clear: we can look forward to increased Hispanic and Latino influence on churches and neighborhoods well into the 21st century.
—with data from Barna Research Group, “Hispanic America Report 2012”
Among Hispanics
87% own a Bible
49% say charismatic gifts are active in the world today
40% attended a worship service last week
38% say faith has greatly transformed their lives
“Faith and family are the main building blocks of Hispanic-Americans. Given the rapid growth of Hispanics in America, it is time to give more attention to this important segment of the American landscape.”
—Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference
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