Rise in new Catholics in U.S. dioceses sparks inquiries into driving factors

In 2025, an increase in new Catholics across several U.S. dioceses has been noted. Reports indicate a noticeable rise in incoming catechumens and candidates in comparison to the previous year. This upswing in numbers is seen at various parishes during the Easter Vigil, which welcomes new members into the Catholic Church.

Patrick Krisak, the director of faith formation and missionary discipleship in the Archdiocese of Boston, stated, "There’s really not any one factor that you can sort of pin it down to at this moment." The archdiocese observed a significant increase from 360 catechumens in 2024 to 458 this year. Krisak speculated that the shift might be due to a renewed appreciation for community and ritual within secular culture.

In the Archdiocese of San Francisco, Sister Celeste Arbuckle pointed to a resumption of religious activities following disruptions from COVID-19 as a possible reason for the increase. The archdiocese saw 653 people participating in the Rite of Election, up from 444 in 2024. "I would say the increase comes because of COVID. People postponed," she explained.

In the Archdiocese of Detroit, 977 individuals are preparing to receive sacraments, up from 793 last year. Kathy Fech highlighted the influence of the National Eucharistic Revival, stating that "We would be silly to discard the working of the Holy Spirit through the efforts of the Eucharistic Revival." She also emphasized the church's role in fostering community and spiritual connection.

Sherry Weddell of the Catherine of Siena Institute advised caution in attributing the trends to single factors, remarking, "Never accept a label in place of a story." She suggested that the increase might be due to a combination of elements, including intercessory prayer facilitating conversions.

At the University of Notre Dame, 125 new Catholics will receive sacraments at Easter, marking the largest number in over 25 years. Brett Perkins observed a shift toward a more deliberate choice to embrace faith, describing it as "an intentional decision to follow after Jesus." He concluded by inviting those seeking fulfillment to "come and see" the Catholic Church's enduring presence.

Kimberley Heatherington reports for OSV News from Virginia.