WASHINGTON, D.C. — A comprehensive study released by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) at Georgetown University provides a revealing snapshot into the backgrounds of men on the path to priesthood in the United States, highlighting the pivotal role of family upbringing in fostering religious vocations.
The survey, conducted among 392 men who are set to be ordained in 2024, underscores a significant correlation between family structure and the inclination toward religious life. An overwhelming 95% of respondents reported being raised by their biological parents, with 88% coming from homes where the parents were married and lived together. This data was released in conjunction with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations (CCLV), ahead of the 61st World Day of Prayer for Vocations.
Pope Francis, in his messages leading up to the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, has often emphasized the importance of parental guidance and the example of committed relationships in nurturing vocations within the family. Bishop Earl Boyea of Lansing, chairman of the CCLV committee, reiterated this sentiment, attributing the development of future priests to the foundational values and faith instilled in them by their families from a young age.
The survey, which boasts an 83% response rate from the 475 men scheduled for ordination, sheds light on the demographic and personal backgrounds of these individuals. Respondents represent a wide array of dioceses and religious institutes across the nation, with the majority identifying as White/Caucasian (67%), followed by Hispanic/Latino (18%), Asian/Pacific Islander (11%), and Black/African American (2%).
Interestingly, the study also delves into the age at which these men first considered the priesthood, averaging at 16 years old, with ages ranging from as young as three to as mature as 53. The average age of ordination stands at 34 years old, maintaining a consistent trend observed since 1999.
Additionally, the report highlights the global nature of the priesthood in the United States, with 23% of respondents being born outside of the country. The most common countries of origin include Mexico, Vietnam, Colombia, and the Philippines, reflecting the diverse backgrounds from which these men come.
Before entering the seminary, a significant 70% of respondents engaged in full-time employment across various fields, notably education, business, and Church ministry. This aspect of the survey points to the breadth of life experiences that candidates bring to their vocation, enriching their journey to priesthood.
The findings of this survey are crucial not only for understanding the demographics and backgrounds of future priests but also for emphasizing the indispensable role of the family in fostering vocations to the priesthood. As the Catholic Church continues to navigate challenges and evolve, the insights provided by this study highlight the enduring importance of familial support and upbringing in cultivating religious life and leadership within the community.
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