A new report shows a continued decrease in the number of permanent vocations to consecrated life in the U.S. — but key factors such as family life, devotional practices, Catholic education and personal encouragement can positively impact those numbers.
The annual report of new priests commissioned by the U.S. bishops shows that among those who responded, a shrinking number are white, a sign of the “little-C” catholic nature of the Catholic Church.
Bishops who want to establish a religious order in their dioceses must first obtain the written permission of the Holy See, Pope Francis said.
After Nov. 28, cardinals coming from religious orders will rise to 51 and there will be 128 cardinals eligible to enter a conclave.
COVID-related supplemental grants assist U.S. congregations of men and women religious in caring for their elderly and infirm members.
The number of religious men and women in religious orders has dropped between 2013-2018 according to Vatican statistics.
Pope Francis meets with 850 superiors general May 10, 2019, at the Vatican, who were in Rome for the plenary assembly of the International Union of Superiors General.
