Over the period surveyed (1965 to 2021), the number of priests fell by around 40%. The decline in graduate level seminarians (up to 2018) is even higher at 57%.
The number of permanent deacons has grown rapidly since 1975 and the 2021 figure of 18,619 now means that there is approximately 1 deacon for every 2 priests.
As of 2021, only 66% of diocesan priests are active in ministry (a fall of 24% since 1970).
The number of self-identified Catholics has grown by 48.5 million to 73.2 million. Of these 14.9 million or around 20% are foreign born.
In 2020, 45,440 persons were received into full communion with the church; in 1999 the figure was 95,003.
The number of religious brothers and sisters has declined sharply over the period 1965 to 2017 (by approximately 68% and 75% respectively).
Hover over each point/bar or slice for the corresponding value for each year shown.
Note: Data is not available for some of the categories in the years 1965, 1970 and 2021.
Note: Data is not available for annulments in the years 1965 to 1980.
Note: Data is not available for some of the categories in the years 1965 and 1970.