Are lapsed Catholics still Catholic?

Lapsed Catholics are individuals who still identify with the Catholic faith but have significantly reduced their participation in church activities, particularly in attending Mass, often going only a few times a year. This phenomenon reflects a broader trend where personal beliefs and practices may diverge from institutional expectations. While they may not actively engage in the rituals and community life of the Church, their self-identification as Catholic suggests a lingering connection to the faith's teachings and traditions. It is important to note that this category can also encompass individuals from other Christian denominations, such as evangelical and mainline Protestants, who similarly identify with their faith yet do not regularly attend services. This highlights the complexity of religious identity in contemporary society, where personal spirituality may not always align with traditional practices.