Family Still Shapes Priestly Vocations, 2024 Ordination Survey Finds

Ahead of the 61st World Day of Prayer for Vocations in 2024, the USCCB released The Class of 2024: Survey of Ordinands to the Priesthood, conducted by CARA. The study again highlights the family as the primary seedbed of priestly vocations in the United States.

Survey at a glance

Of 475 men scheduled for ordination in 2024, 392 completed the survey (83% response rate). They represented 128 dioceses and eparchies and 29 religious institutes. Respondents reported first considering priesthood at an average age of 16 and being ordained at an average age of 34.

Ninety-five percent were raised by their biological parents, and 88% grew up with married parents living together. Bishop Earl Boyea of Lansing, chair of the bishops’ Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations, emphasized that parents united in marriage are often the first witnesses of love and faith for their children.

Background before seminary

Seventy percent of respondents had worked full-time before entering seminary. Common fields included education (21%), business (16%), and Church ministry (13%). About 23% were born outside the United States, with frequent countries of origin including Mexico, Vietnam, Colombia, and the Philippines.

Relevance for brotherhood and discernment

Although the survey focuses on priestly ordination, the findings parallel trends in religious life: Catholic homes, parish involvement, and encouragement from others matter deeply. Communities of Holy Cross brothers can strengthen vocation outreach by supporting families, youth ministry, and credible witness to consecrated life as Educators in the Faith.