The question arose during a recent Sunday visit to the Self-Realization Fellowship lake shrine in Pacific Palisades, which has areas of worship for all of the main religions. What, in modern times, leads people to a religious conversion? What brings people from different backgrounds and ages drawn to places of worship?

"A lot of people in LA don't have roots here; they are searching for a sense of family," explained Professor Diane Winston, of the USC School of Journalism and Communication, highlighting one reason for the attraction to religion in LA. "Besides, LA lacks big institutional religious groups, which some people hesitate to join. In fact, Los Angeles has been a hotbed for religious innovation, diversity, and experimentation—emerging when people attempt to reinvent themselves. I find Los Angeles to be a more religious city than New York or Chicago."

"In fact, LA has the second-largest populations of Jewish, Mormon, and Catholic followers in the country," noted Professor Winston. These numbers are particularly intriguing considering Los Angeles is renowned for its glitz and glamour, yet it boasts significant religious diversity within its population.

Nestled amidst the lush greenery, members and visitors from all faiths of life moved silently along the paths, their footsteps echoing in the stillness. The lake reflected the vibrant blue sky, and the lotus flowers opened their petals, embracing the sunlight.

Los Angeles is the most religiously diverse city in the country. A Baháʼí Faith Center in Los Angeles, Photo by Arun Cherukuri/USC

Similar scenes unfolded throughout various temples, churches, and mosques around Los Angeles. In the bustling metropolis, where the pursuit of dreams is as common as the perpetual sunshine, this is an interesting picture. As the palm trees sway, does this mean that Angelenos are turning toward religion, seeking solace and meaning in a city often associated with superficial pursuits?

Dr. Flory thinks that these individuals have discovered something within a religious community—a message that resonates with where they are in their lives—which draws them to religion.

"The usual reasons for individuals to belong to a religious group—whether it's about belief, belonging, and community—provide people with a framework to understand the world. Additionally, it offers individuals a community within which to navigate the world in various ways," observed Dr. Richard Flory, Executive Director of the Center for Religion and Civic Culture at USC. "Now, these communities vary depending on the religious groups and other variables. Religion becomes a part of your identity."

"Christianity and meditative practice elevate and uplift me, making life more vivid and rich," explains Rev. Jim Burklo, Associate Dean at the Office of Religious Life at USC. "Faith also inspires humility, kindness, and a commitment to service, which extends beyond my professional life into activism for peace and justice. Throughout my life, I've dedicated many years to working with homeless people, and this commitment has been an outgrowth of my spiritual practice. It informs every aspect of my life and shapes who I am."

Ko'e Umezu, Assistant Minister at the West Los Angeles Buddhist Temple, reflected on challenges in friendships and various relationships from her past. "There were moments when understanding the truth from the perspective of Buddhism, and realizing how we contribute to our own difficulties, was truly eye-opening for me. It played a significant role in transforming the way I view my life," she shared.

Fr. Matthew Wheeler, the Catholic priest in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles who attended USC for college, shared insights into his challenging experience during the transition to USC from another state. "Coming to college, especially transitioning to USC, proved to be a challenging experience for me. Being out of my comfort zone and away from home for the first time led to struggles with homesickness and a search for meaning. It was during this vulnerable period that I opened up to God in a new way. Connecting with some wonderful Catholics, including great priests, played a pivotal role in my journey. Ultimately, this experience of leaving home and my comfort zone, despite its initial difficulty, turned out to be a tremendous blessing, leading me to discern my vocation to the priesthood."

"Numerous noteworthy developments have captured people's attention in Los Angeles. Several churches, boasting excellent music and preaching, particularly appeal to young attendees and draw large congregations every Sunday. Likewise, certain synagogues in LA stand out by combining social action with spirituality, attracting a diverse audience. Additionally, many individuals actively participate in Buddhist sanghas in the comfort of their homes," reflected Professor Winston. "Furthermore, the city is home to various esoteric religions that continue to attract followers."

Los Angeles is known for its glitz, glamor, and lifestyle that often seem more focused on material pursuits than matters of the soul. In contrast to this, lifestyles that cater to teaching a stress-free way of life are found everywhere, from the huge Art of Living foundation’s domed church just beyond USC’s campus - a global spiritual non-profit organization whose mission is stated as a “movement towards a happier, stress-free world”, to the towering Mormon Church located in the Westwood district of Los Angeles; and the variety of Christian, Bahaii, Buddhist, Jewish, and Muslim places of worship.

Infact, according to the Pew Research Center’s detailed article, diversity in religion has been increasing in the US, reflecting the trend in Los Angeles,

A question arises as to why a resident in LA chooses to attend a religious or spiritual center? It's not like LA is a sleepy town with nothing to do. LA has its nightlife, entertainment hubs, and outdoor activity offerings throughout the year. Then why would someone “willingly” choose to attend churches, while the overall trend is a religious membership rapidly declining, according to the Pew Research.

Los Angeles seems to buck this national trend of declining Christians. According to The World Religion News, Christianity is on the rise in Los Angeles.

"This is an era marked by a decline in religious affiliation. This doesn't imply a lack of belief in something; rather, it suggests a dissatisfaction with institutions traditionally regarded as places for practicing one's beliefs," observed Professor Winston. "Interestingly, those who choose to remain within these institutions tend to exhibit a heightened level of religiosity compared to the past. While there is a trend of individuals distancing themselves from organized religion, paradoxically, those who remain are deepening their religious commitment."

"There is believing and belonging—two distinct issues. While we hear that the number of people who don't believe in God has increased, this has not translated to nearly the same rate of disaffiliation as shown. This suggests that people still hold beliefs, but they simply don't find the religious organizations available to them appealing for belonging," said Dr. Flory, explaining the confusion when trend numbers are analyzed.

"Scholars at Chalet have considered Los Angeles a hotbed of religion, religious innovation, and experimentation because many people lack roots here. As a result, individuals seek community where they can start anew, unencumbered by familial ties to specific traditions," observed Professor Winston. "The weather fosters a certain level of openness, and often, people find nature to be profoundly spiritual."

"Los Angeles lacks strong religious institutions that wield political influence, unlike the Catholic Church in New York. The absence of prominent institutional religious groups, coupled with the experimentation that arises when newcomers feel free to reinvent themselves, has contributed to making LA a hub for individuals seeking faith," Professor Winston summarized.

Hear from the Diverse Sources

Why Religion?

When residents of Los Angeles were asked about the reasons behind their choice of religion, common themes surfaced: The attraction to faith reflects the desires of individuals navigating the complexities of modern life, yearning for solace, connection, and a sense of purpose beyond the material realm.

1. Choice of Religious Diversity in LA:

"LA stands out as the most religiously diverse city in the world. From atheism to Zoroastrianism, one can find a spectrum of beliefs here. There's an opportunity to explore different perspectives or engage with specific communities that resonate with individuals," noted Dr. Flory. "Religion in LA is adaptive, with various religious groups adjusting to meet the evolving needs and desires of the people in the region. Consequently, individuals can find a place that resonates with them in some fashion. It's a dynamic interplay where people actively seek, and religious groups continually adapt to align with shifting dynamics and collaborate with community groups."

2. Urban Isolation and the Quest for Community and Structure:

"Life can be very challenging, and nearly everybody, globally and in LA, seeks a reason to get up in the morning. Various religions, like Judaism and Islam, emphasize practices, such as attending services, lighting candles on Shabbat, and celebrating holidays. On the other hand, religions like Christianity are more faith-oriented," explained Professor Winston. "When I refer to 'practice,' I mean engaging in specific rituals. People are drawn to traditional religions for reasons like desiring more structure in their lives or having a heritage that guides their spiritual path."

Dr. Flory shared similar perspectives, stating, "Los Angeles can also be a very lonely city due to its vast geographical spread. People seek community in various ways, and while it may not be exclusive to religious groups, these groups have traditionally served as one of the primary means through which individuals find a sense of belonging."

In the expansive metropolis of Los Angeles, feeling lost in the crowd is common. The fast-paced, competitive nature of the city can lead individuals to experience isolation and disconnection. Many are discovering comfort and a sense of belonging within faith communities. Local churches, synagogues, and mosques are evolving into centers for building relationships and nurturing a sense of community, addressing a profound need for connection in a city where it's too easy to feel like just another face in the crowd.

3. Coping with Life's Pressures:

"Life is hard, and if nothing compels us to take action, we might as well stay in bed," explains Professor Winston. "I believe most people have a religious or spiritual connection, but it might not be what we traditionally think of as religious. People can make money their god, turn sex into their god, make shopping their god, or even prioritize pickleball."

The entertainment industry, relentless traffic, and the pursuit of success in Los Angeles make life demanding, and the pressure can be overwhelming. For some, faith becomes a coping mechanism, offering strength and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Whether through prayer, meditation, or communal support, individuals turn to their faith to navigate the stresses of everyday life.

"Personally, a significant experience I can highlight is when I faced a challenging situation during my pregnancy," shared Ms. Ellen Cerniglia, who attends the Malibu Pacific Church. "I was informed that my child might face life-threatening complications, or, in the worst case, might not survive. It was an incredibly difficult time for me, and my church provided vital support throughout this period."

Ms. Cerniglia believes that her religious affiliation has positively impacted the quality of her life. "If you genuinely believe in the presence of God within you, you can feel it in your heart, influencing your emotions on a daily basis. Prayer has a positive impact on your feelings and the way you lead your life. I believe that during challenging and desperate times, maintaining this connection is crucial. Personally, I find it important and have stayed connected because I sense God's love and presence, which provides comfort and strength."

4. The Quest for Meaning Amidst the Glitz:

In a city that often equates success with material wealth, some Angelenos are questioning the emptiness that can accompany a purely materialistic lifestyle. Life in LA is synonymous with the pursuit of fame, fortune, and a perpetual desire for reinvention. Yet, amidst the shimmering lights of the entertainment industry and the sprawling suburbs, many individuals find themselves grappling with a profound sense of emptiness. It's in this void that some discover a yearning for spiritual fulfillment, prompting a shift towards faith that transcends the materialistic allure of the City of Angels. Faith, with its emphasis on purpose, meaning, and a connection to something greater than oneself, provides an alternative narrative. People are seeking a deeper understanding of life, purpose, and fulfillment, and for some, faith offers the answers they're searching for.

"Spirituality provides me with perspective. Christian contemplative practice is instrumental in putting things into perspective. During meditative spiritual practices in Christianity, the center of one's being is not the self. It transcends personal aspects such as personality, body, and worldly identity. Instead, it focuses on God or the divine, using whatever term one prefers," explains Rev. Burklo. "Embracing this perspective liberates me, as I am no longer fixated on myself or my personal concerns. I come to realize that my true self extends beyond the daily worries and preoccupations, bringing a profound sense of liberation and relief. Living from this vantage point allows me to be less self-centered, ego-driven, and absorbed in my own concerns. The Christian practice actively frees me from self-absorption, and for that, I am grateful."

"I believe religion is important because it addresses a reality that is often overlooked in our daily lives. We are deeply immersed in the visible, tangible aspects of life—what we can see and touch, approached in an empirical and scientific manner, and that's valuable," Fr. Wheeler said. " However, there's another dimension, the metaphysical reality, the existence beyond the visible world, a life beyond what is immediately apparent."

"When I mentioned having difficulties with friendships and relationships, it was particularly challenging when I first moved to Los Angeles. The lifestyle there often involves people living for themselves," reflected Ko'e Umezu of the West LA Buddhist Temple. "In a city like Los Angeles, it's easy to forget that we are part of a larger community, especially with the need to travel long distances on freeways to connect with others. Unlike smaller towns, Los Angeles lacks a close-knit community feeling. I believe faith communities play a crucial role in offering that sense of community and reminding us of our responsibility toward others who share this community with us."

5. Distinctive Influences in LA's Faith Conversions:

Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures and beliefs. What makes faith conversions in LA particularly intriguing is the unique amalgamation of cultures and ideologies. The diversity within the city, influenced by Hollywood, the tech industry, and a vibrant arts scene, provides a rich tapestry of religious exploration. Conversations about spirituality are not confined to traditional places of worship but echo in yoga studios, meditation retreats, and unconventional gatherings, creating an environment where people are more open to reevaluating their beliefs. Many residents, inspired by the cultural mosaic around them, are exploring different faiths and spiritual practices. Interfaith dialogue and events are on the rise, fostering an environment where individuals can learn from and be inspired by a variety of religious perspectives.

6. Vulnerabilities in the City of Dreams:

Despite the glitz and glamour, Los Angeles is not immune to its share of vulnerabilities. Economic disparities, social pressures, and the transient nature of relationships can leave individuals feeling adrift in a city that can be both welcoming and isolating. These vulnerabilities often act as catalysts for a midlife conversion, offering a spiritual anchor in the face of life's uncertainties.

"In LA, religion has experimented with innovation. Religion might not be the something that we think of as traditionally religious. For example, people can make money, power, shopping, or pickleball their god," reflected Professor Winston. "So in the sense, almost everybody believes in something, and that becomes their religion."

The Role of Vulnerability in Midlife:

In the vast landscape of LA, where success is often measured by external markers, individuals reaching midlife may find themselves questioning the very foundations of their existence. It is during these moments of introspection, often triggered by personal crises or a sense of unfulfillment, that vulnerability becomes a powerful force. Whether it's the loss of a job, a relationship, or a sense of purpose, these midlife challenges can prompt a soul-searching journey that leads individuals to seek solace in faith, providing a sense of stability and purpose.

7. Celebrity Influence and Spiritual Trends:

In a city where celebrity culture often takes center stage, the spiritual journeys of well-known figures can have a profound impact. High-profile individuals openly discussing their faith or spiritual practices can influence public opinion. The celebrity endorsement of certain spiritual trends and practices has contributed to a broader acceptance of faith in a city that, at first glance, may seem more concerned with fame than faith.

Los Angeles, with its paradoxical blend of glamour and vulnerability, becomes a unique backdrop for the narratives of those who convert to faith in the middle of their lives. In a city where dreams are both made and broken, the quest for something more profound than material success is unfolding, shaping a narrative that transcends the stereotypes of LA's superficiality. In the shadows of the Hollywood sign, a different kind of transformation is taking place—one of spiritual rediscovery and the search for a deeper meaning in the City of Angels.