Last updated: June 19, 2025
Most popular religion in Canada reflects the country’s diverse and inclusive cultural makeup—this diversity extends deeply into its religious landscape. Canadians practice a wide variety of religions, and although religious affiliation has declined in recent years, a large portion of the population still identifies with a specific faith.
As of the latest census data, over 70% of Canadians claim some form of religious belief. Among all religions practiced, Christianity remains the most popular religion in Canada, especially Catholicism and Protestantism.
This article explores why Christianity holds this position, how it has evolved over time, and what other religions are gaining influence across the country.
Christianity: The most popular religion in Canada
Christianity has been the dominant religion in Canada since the colonial era, brought by French and British settlers. It has deeply influenced the nation’s laws, ethics, holidays, and institutions, especially in the areas of education, health care, and social services.
Statistics of Christianity in Canada
- Around 67% of the Canadian population identifies as Christian.
- 42% are Catholic.
- 25% belong to Protestant or other Christian denominations.
Christianity remains the largest faith group, despite the rise of secularism and immigration-driven religious diversity.
Christian Denominations in Canada
Over time, different branches of Christianity have become established in Canada:
- Catholicism: Most practiced, especially in Quebec and Ontario.
- Anglican Church of Canada
- United Church of Canada
- Baptists, Lutherans, Pentecostals
- Orthodox Christianity (Eastern and Oriental), growing with immigration.
Additionally, immigrant communities have brought diverse expressions of Christianity, including Evangelical, Coptic, Ethiopian, and Korean churches, enriching the religious fabric of the country.
Other Religions Practiced in Canada
While Christianity remains the most popular, Canada is also home to many other religious traditions:
| Religion | % of Population (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Islam | 4.9% |
| Hinduism | 2.3% |
| Sikhism | 2.1% |
| Buddhism | 1.4% |
| Judaism | 1.0% |
| Indigenous Spiritualities | <1% |
| No Religion / Atheism | ~32% |
Immigration has played a key role in this diversity, particularly from South Asia, the Middle East, and East Asia.
The Rise of Secularism and Non-Religious Canadians
One of the most significant trends in Canada’s religious landscape is the growth of non-religious Canadians:
- Over 1 in 3 Canadians now identify as atheist, agnostic, or spiritual-but-not-religious.
- Younger generations are especially likely to report no formal religion.
- This shift is more common in urban centers like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal.
Why Christianity Remains the Most Popular Religion in Canada
Despite these changes, Christianity has retained its dominant role due to:
- Historical roots: Its introduction during colonization shaped institutions and cultural norms.
- Adaptability: Christian churches have evolved to remain relevant—socially, politically, and spiritually.
- Cultural integration: Holidays, values, and charitable organizations still reflect Christian influence.
- Diversity within Christianity: Immigrant churches have revitalized Christian communities across provinces.
Conclusion
The most popular religion in Canada is still Christianity, a reflection of both the country’s colonial history and its ability to adapt to new cultural contexts. However, the nation’s growing religious diversity—and rise in secularism—means Canada continues to evolve into one of the world’s most spiritually pluralistic countries.
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