Los Angeles Archdiocese reports greater number of converts in Easter in 10 years

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles (United States) welcomed the Catholic Church to more than 5,500 converts this Easter, the greatest number in more than a decade and a surprising figure for the largest archdiocese in the country.

Fr. Juan Ochoa, who directs the Archdiocesan Office for Divine Culthe has been observing the figures closely and told CNA – Ewtn News agency – that he did not expect such an increase.

“Normally we see an increase of 10% compared to the previous year,” he said. “This year, it was about 45%. That is significant.”

The group includes almost 2,800 people baptized in Pascual vigil, individuals without any affiliation prior to Christianity.

Likewise, many had already been baptized in other Christian traditions and received the sacraments of confirmation and the Eucharist in Catholic parishes in the counties of Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara.

For many, the decision to enter the Church was deeply personal. P. Ochoa commented that the conversions of this 2025 were different from those of other years.

“I can’t point out a single reason,” he said. “It’s not just one thing. I think Covid made people reflect. For some, he created a space to ask questions. And maybe they are now ready.”

The publication of the 2025 conversion figures is produced just after the death of Pope Francis. P. Ochoa did not hesitate to respond when asked about the impact of the late Pontiff.

“He gave the Church a different image,” he said. “He arrived at people who did not feel view. And thanks to that, some people began to see the church in a new way.”

For Father Ochoa, the legacy of the late Pope is still alive in the people who cross the doors of the Church is Easter.

“They are not here because someone has pressed them,” he said. “They are here because something called them.”

The priest has seen that more and more parishes adopt that same approach to the outside. “Some parish priests are realizing that it is not enough to continue doing what we have always done,” he said. “They wonder how to get to people who are not yet here.”

That change has taken time. P. Ochoa mentioned the New Evangelization and Parish Life Office, which has helped the parishes to think with greater purpose in the work of community scope. Instead of applying a unique model everywhere, the office works with local leaders to understand what is possible and necessary in their community.

“I have worked in three different parishes,” said Father Ochoa. “Even with similar demographies, you cannot simply copy and paste. What works in one place may not work in another. Culture matters.”

He also thanked a variety of Catholic voices on social networks and digital platforms for helping people learn about faith, especially those who could have hesitated to enter a church immediately.

In other parts of the United Statesother dioceses also report increases in adult conversions. Thomas Rzeznik, Associate Professor of History at the Seton Hall University of New Jersey and co -editor of the American Journal American Catholic Studies, believes that this reflects a deeper moment.

“There is a desire for meaning right now,” he said. “People are looking for something more solid. And when they find a cozy and prepared parish, that can make a difference.”

While national data shows a decrease in child baptisms, the increase in adults who approach faith reveals another reality. P. Ochoa observes that contrast every year.

“Children’s baptisms reflect culture and tradition,” he said. “But adult baptisms are personal. He is someone who decides, for himself, that this is what he wants. That matters.”

Translated and adapted by the ACI Press team. Originally published in CNA.