Global Survey of Catholic Women

In March 2022 Catholic Women Speak launched an international survey for Catholic women wanting to contribute to the global Synod. It attracted more than 17,000 responses from 104 countries. With the support of Voices of Faith, researchers Drs Tracy McEwan and Kathleen McPhillips and Professor Tina Beattie prepared the first report summing up its results.

It is one of the most extensive surveys of its kind ever undertaken. It is a significant and unique resource in its aim to listen to diverse voices to better discern what it means to “journey together” as the People of God in a Church of many cultures. While the survey does not claim to be representative of all Catholic women, it provides a rich insight into the complex realities of Catholic women’s lives, the ways in which they express their faith, and their relationships with the institutional Church. The substantial findings should thus inform lasting and genuine change in church institutions, structures, and practices.

This final report was submitted to the General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops on Tuesday, 20th September for inclusion in the Synod feedback.