Catholic Sacraments of Initiation along with Religious and Spiritual Pathways to Well-Being in Emerging Adulthood: Longitudinal Evidence from the United States.

This study examines the longitudinal association between receipt of two Catholic Sacraments of Initiation—First Eucharist and Confirmation—and well-being in emerging adulthood, using nationally representative data from the National Study of Youth and Religion (NSYR). Findings indicate that receiving First Eucharist in adolescence is linked to lower depressive symptoms and better self-rated physical health several years later, whereas Confirmation shows no such association. The positive effects of First Eucharist on well-being are mediated primarily through increased weekly Mass attendance and greater perceived closeness to God, with religious salience also mediating physical health outcomes. These results highlight the unique role of the Eucharist in fostering sustained religious engagement and personal spirituality, suggesting implications for Catholic catechesis and pastoral practice amid declining sacramental participation.