There has been some discussion on the socials of late about whether the number of converts has ticked up. Data differs, but I think this is reasonable. Even though I think it misses the point.
https://twitter.com/EricRSammons/status/1899086004188840284
So we have flattened out during a long-term downtrend. But I get the sense that the quality of those converting is changing even if the quantity isn’t, yet. I see so many people coming to the faith now, not just because they are marrying someone Catholic, which I think constituted the bulk of converts in the past and is the source of the downtrend, but because they are actively choosing it. They have felt the Spirit move and have examined the arguments and they have rightly found the bulwark of the faith. Stand with the Catholic Church or soon have no place to stand at all.
So this my short, albeit anecdotal, thesis: The type of converts we are getting now, although few in number, are the ones the spirit is moving to help with a much bigger reaping of souls at the multi-generational battle reaches its peak and its denouement. Today’s quality of converts is setting the stage for quantity in the future.
March 14, 2025 at 11:07 am
I very much agree, and I think our good Pope Benedict would, too.
It was Pope Benedict who predicted a smaller, but far more faithful church in future.
From the converts I have encountered at my small, poor, inner-city parish (which had 20 entering the Church at Easter Vigil last year, and a similar number this year, thanks be to God!) your take on this is entirely correct.
I am grateful for these recent converts – including JD Vance – who have not only come to the Church responding to the longing of their hearts, but also through their understanding of the logic of Church teaching. They are indeed a blessing.
March 18, 2025 at 3:27 pm
I couldn’t agree more. Truly, who would convert and come into the visible mess that is the current state of affairs in the Church today unless it actually was Christ’s one, true Church? I’ve actually used that reality to help convince some recent converts to enter RCIA. And I believe it was our dear Lord who foresaw this reality as it was an apostle who betrayed him, 10 ran away and hid, and only one stood at the foot of the cross. Seems about the right ratio today: although there are more Judases among the cowards, and a smaller percent who would show up on Good Friday. Honestly, how many heroic, believing bishops are there today? Less than 1 in 12, I’m guessing.