Washington, D.C.: In a remarkable sign of renewal during the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year, a total of 405 men are set to be ordained as priests across the United States. This uplifting figure comes from a survey conducted by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) in partnership with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
Out of the 405 ordinands, 80% are entering diocesan priesthood, ready to serve in parishes and diocesan roles, while the remaining 20% are preparing to take on vocations within religious congregations. A large number of these men share a common early experience: serving at the altar in their youth, which helped nurture their calling.
The Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, is leading the national count with Bishop Michael Burbidge ordaining 12 new deacons on June 7, with more on the path toward priesthood. In the Midwest, the Diocese of Cleveland also marks a significant moment as Bishop Edward Malesic ordained eight deacons on May 17.
Among religious orders, the Jesuits have contributed the highest number of new priests this year, with 18 men ordained across the Society’s four U.S. provinces. The Dominican Order follows closely, with nine new priests, seven of whom were recently ordained at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., in a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Anthony Fisher of Sydney.
These ordinations are a strong reflection of the faith and resilience of the Catholic community in the United States, which encompasses over 66 million members across 195 dioceses. As the Church celebrates this Jubilee Year, the rising number of vocations signals hope and a deepened spiritual commitment to the future.