ABSTRACT
Decline and irregularity are the two most recurring terms adopted by scholars and observers of religious phenomena when describing the present-day state of religious practice in European countries. The prize for the highest degree of religious practice, however, does not go to Catholics but to those of other religious faiths. The greatest involvement seems not only to interest the historic religious minorities, but also the faiths of different cultural traditions that are taking root in Italy following the recent migratory flows. The condition of distraction or uneasiness during religious services is much more widespread among those who define themselves as Catholics due to tradition and education and selective Catholics than among those more convinced and engaged. Receiving the sacrament of Communion is without doubt one of the key indicators of Christian, and in particular Catholic, practice. In contrast, prayers are offered much less often to other religious figures holding an important place in the Catholic sacred canopy.
