FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — Gen Z is filling pews across the country, and local faith leaders in Fresno say they’re seeing the shift up close — with more young people showing up, asking questions, and looking for community.

Bishop Joseph Brennan of the Diocese of Fresno said what stands out to him is the level of devotion he’s seeing among young people. “What struck me is that they’re on that level, they’re holier than I was when I was their age,” Brennan said.

The increase is also reflected in national data. Adult conversions to the Catholic Church are surging nationwide, jumping from about 70,000 in 2020 to a projected 160,000 this year. The Diocese of Fresno is seeing a similar spike, growing from more than 700 new members last year to over 1,200 new additions this year.

“It’s pretty amazing,” Brennan said.

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At Fresno State’s Newman Center, Executive Director Katie Fleener said the growth is visible week after week. “Often on Sundays, you’ll see not a vacant seat in the house people lining the back of the chapel and out into our halls,” Fleener said.

Fleener said the Newman Center’s reach spans multiple campuses. “We served about 700 students combined at those four campuses,” she said.

She said many students are seeking in-person connections after growing up in a world shaped by screens. “They need community, they need face time. they need that, that pastoral time and care,” Fleener said.

Brennan said he believes some young people are drawn to faith as they look for stability amid turmoil. “I think young folks are tired of chaos. They’re tired of things they see in the street,” he said.

Local Jewish leaders say they’re seeing increased engagement among young people as well. Rabbi Rick said faith can provide answers and a sense of grounding that people may not find elsewhere. “When religion is doing its job well, it’s answering things that other things can’t answer so well it can be grounding and can provide hope,” he said.

Rabbi Rick also described religion as a stabilizing force. “It’s like putting a firmer foundation under our feet when it can feel shaky,” he said.

Brennan said he encourages young people who are struggling or searching to engage with faith. “He will meet you where you’re at.”

Confused? He’ll meet you there. Are you hopeless? He’ll meet you there. Are you angry? He meets us where we’re at. He always does.