Menu

Africa, Philippines lead Church growth over past 10 years

From 2011 to 2021, the highest growth rates in Church membership occurred in Africa and the Philippines.

The Church overall grew from 14.13 million members in 2011 to 16.81 million in 2021, for an 18.92% increase.

Chart showing percentage of Church membership increase from 2011 to 2021, by continent or region
Growth in Church membership in past 10 years, by region | Aaron Thorup, for the Church News

The number of members in Africa more than doubled during the 10 years; the Philippines, Central America, Brazil and Pacific Islands had increases of more than 25%.

In raw numbers, the regions with the largest increases in Church membership were the United States, 618,437; Spanish-speaking countries in South America, 455,269; Africa, 403,976; Brazil, 317,498; and the Philippines, 187,269.

2011 statistics are from the 2012 Church Almanac; 2021 statistics are posted on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.

Read more

Related Stories
In what region did the number of missions almost double in the past 10 years?
See graphics showing Church growth during 2021
Episode 80: ‘Saints, Vol. 3’ editors detail documenting a history that highlights globalization of the Church and overcoming trials
The Utah Area presidency’s vision and concerns for its members
Newsletters
Subscribe for free and get daily or weekly updates straight to your inbox
The three things you need to know everyday
Highlights from the last week to keep you informed