Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA)

Catholic permanent deacons — who in 2025 numbered more than 21,000 in the U.S., with close to 15,000 in active ministry — “bring a spirit of renewal and encouragement to …

What does the latest generation of priests in the U.S. look like, and what factors have shaped their vocation?

Graduate-level and college-level enrollment at Catholic seminaries in the U.S. were down significantly in the 2024-2025 academic year, while high school seminary enrollment has held steady, according to CARA statistics

Diocesan bishops and vocations directors are largely satisfied with their seminaries’ formation programs — but some gaps remain, according to a new report.

In coming years, some Roman pilgrims will undoubtedly search for Pope Francis’ tomb at St. Peter’s Basilica only to learn that, in accord with the pontiff’s wishes, his mortal remains …

The report — “A Portrait of the Permanent Diaconate in 2025” — was released June 12 by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations.

(OSV News) — The U.S. Catholic bishops’ latest annual report on child and youth protection shows abuse allegations continue to decline — but authors warned of the dangers of complacency among …

“Encourage a young man to consider the priesthood or to attend Eucharistic adoration; he could be your future pastor,” said Bishop Earl A. Boyea of Lansing, Michigan.

(OSV News) — Sunday Mass attendance in person at Catholic churches in the U.S. is back to pre-pandemic levels — although just under one quarter of the nation’s Catholics are in …

(OSV News) — 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, …