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France is set to witness a significant number of catechumens baptized during the Easter Vigil on April 19, with over 17,800 individuals, including 10,384 adults and more than 7,400 young people aged 11 to 17, embracing the faith. This marks a 45% increase in adult baptisms compared to the previous year.
These numbers, the highest recorded since the survey's inception in 2002, were announced by the National Service for Catechumens of the French bishops’ conference on April 10. Archbishop Olivier de Germay of Lyon, responsible for the catechumenate in France, commented on this "dynamic" not as a trend but as a “sign from Heaven."
The increase in baptisms, particularly among the 18-25 age group, is considered "impressive" by Cécile Eon, the national delegate for adult catechumenate. She noted that "requests are pouring in, and the teams must be reorganized." This demographic shift is echoed by Catherine Lemoine, the national delegate for the pastoral care of young people. She remarked on the rise in baptism preparation groups and the existential questions young people often grapple with, leading them to explore faith.
According to Catherine Chevalier, national head of the Proclamation of the Faith and Accompaniment of the Christian Life office, the uptick in religious interest could be attributed to socio-political factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts. However, she emphasized that personal spiritual journeys also play a significant role.
The influence of social networks among younger catechumens is present but not decisive, according to Chevalier. These individuals are expressing a "thirst for God" and a desire for community and rites consistent with their personal beliefs.
Hubert Boüan, responsible for catechumens at the Cathedral of St. Louis in Versailles, highlighted the growing number of baptisms, attributing it partly to individuals coming from broken families wishing to reconnect with their Christian heritage. Many also seek to "explore the issues surrounding" faith that was once practiced in their families.
The French bishops' survey shows that 52% of this year’s baptized adults come from families with Christian backgrounds. Additionally, those baptized at birth but without subsequent religious education are now also showing an interest in re-engaging with the faith.
Due to the influx of new catechumens, more ceremonies are being planned, including an additional one in November alongside the traditional Pentecost ceremony. Events like FRAT and the Youth Jubilee in Rome are part of efforts to integrate young people into the church.
The challenge, as highlighted by Chevalier, lies in training enough supervisors to prepare these new catechumens. There has been a 31% increase in coordinators from the previous year, with most being dedicated laypeople.
Archbishop de Germay noted that established Christians could discover new dimensions of faith through the experiences of new catechumens, enriching the entire community.
Caroline de Sury contributed this report from Paris.
