More people in America believe Jesus was an important spiritual figure than actually believe he historically existed.

A new national study published as part of a partnership between The Episcopal Church (TEC) and Ipsos polling, found that 76 percent of all Americans — regardless of religious or political affiliation — believe that Jesus of Nazareth historically existed. The same survey found that 84 percent of Americans believe that Jesus was an important spiritual figure.

The surveyors also asked Americans identifying as Christians if Jesus was an important figure in their lives. A total of 88 percent of all Christians said he was. Broken down into denominational subgroups, 84 percent of Catholics affirmed the statement; while 83 percent of Mainline Protestants; 95 percent of other Protestants; and 91 percent of other Christians answered the question with a “yes.”

In publishing the wide-ranging survey, which also looked at the state of religion in America, the impact of COVID-19 on religious activity, and perceptions of Christians and the issues of the day, TEC noted on its Website:

The study also found that the global pandemic has negatively impacted participation in organized religion — or religious activity — and more people are finding spiritual fulfillment in nature. In addition, while the church has been a place of community and non-judgment, some Americans feel that churches that discuss racism and slavery are acting with the wrong intentions.

Read the survey results here.

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