Depression is common in older adults and is considered a major health concern for this age group (Older adults: Depression and suicide, 2003). A growing body of research suggests that religion may serve as a protective factor against depression for the older adult. More research is needed to clarify what aspects of religion are associated with decreased depression in older adults and how these religious factors relate to other established protective factors such as social support. There is a special need for this information regarding older adults living in care facilities, which is a growing segment of our population (Blazer, 2000). This project dissertation examined the relationship between depression and several dimensions of religion: intrinsic religiosity, organizational religiosity, nonorganizational religiosity, and religious coping. In addition to these aspects of religion, participation in a faith-based visitation program was also examined for its impact on mood. A correlational design was used and the sample was comprised of 61 referred individuals over the age of 60 living in assisted living or skilled nursing facilities. As expected, there was a high rate of depression and religious affiliation, intrinsic religiosity, and religious coping in this sample of older adults. Consistent with previous research, poor health, impairment in functional activities of daily life, and a perceived lack of social support were predictive of depression. Contrary to the researcher's hypotheses, there was not a significant relationship found between religious variables and depression. A discussion of possible reasons for this outcome and suggestions for future research are presented.