25-05-2026
Curiosity
The Church in the world: where are the faithful increasing in number?
Catholicism is growing globally, particularly in Africa and Asia. Meanwhile, vocations and the number of priests are declining in Europe: here’s what’s changing in the Church today
The number of faithful worldwide is growing worldwide. According to statistics released by Agenzia Fides on the occasion of the 2025 World Mission Sunday, the number of Catholics around the world has increased by nearly 16 million compared to the previous year, now representing 17.8% of the global population.
The most significant growth comes from Africa, a continent that has recorded more than 8 million new faithful and now represents one of the main areas of expansion for the Catholic faith. Positive figures have also been reported in America and Asia. It is also worth noting the increase in the number of bishops, which has now reached 5,430. While the number of diocesan bishops is growing, the number of bishops belonging to religious orders is declining. As for Europe, however, there is a strong opposite trend, with a continuous decline in priestly vocations.
Therefore, while the number of faithful worldwide is increasing, the number of priests and seminarians continues to decline, especially in European countries. On the other hand, the number of permanent deacons is growing, and more dioceses are being established in missionary territories, a sign of a Church that is becoming increasingly active in developing areas. The role of the Church in social services also remains essential. Around the world, Catholic institutions manage thousands of Catholic schools, hospitals, healthcare centers, and charitable facilities, confirming their strong commitment to solidarity, education, and support for the most vulnerable people. Despite the cultural changes of recent years, the data therefore show a growing Church, still capable of attracting faithful and maintaining a central role in many communities around the world. (La Chiesa cresce in tutto il mondo. Le statistiche del 2025)
The most significant growth comes from Africa, a continent that has recorded more than 8 million new faithful and now represents one of the main areas of expansion for the Catholic faith. Positive figures have also been reported in America and Asia. It is also worth noting the increase in the number of bishops, which has now reached 5,430. While the number of diocesan bishops is growing, the number of bishops belonging to religious orders is declining. As for Europe, however, there is a strong opposite trend, with a continuous decline in priestly vocations.
Therefore, while the number of faithful worldwide is increasing, the number of priests and seminarians continues to decline, especially in European countries. On the other hand, the number of permanent deacons is growing, and more dioceses are being established in missionary territories, a sign of a Church that is becoming increasingly active in developing areas. The role of the Church in social services also remains essential. Around the world, Catholic institutions manage thousands of Catholic schools, hospitals, healthcare centers, and charitable facilities, confirming their strong commitment to solidarity, education, and support for the most vulnerable people. Despite the cultural changes of recent years, the data therefore show a growing Church, still capable of attracting faithful and maintaining a central role in many communities around the world. (La Chiesa cresce in tutto il mondo. Le statistiche del 2025)