Islam and magic increase?

The latest census results on religion will show Christianity continuing to decline, while the reach of Islam – and magic – are growing, an academic has predicted.

These particular 2021 census results are due to be released this autumn onwards, but religious studies professor Linda Woodhead anticipates a drop in those identifying as ‘Christian’ to below 50% – and a rise of up to 8% in Muslims.

Speaking at the annual lecture of the Religion Media Centre, she said: ‘The churches have failed dramatically as moral authorities, with the abuse scandals being just the latest nail in that coffin.’