National Study of Catholic Priests

The Catholic Project at The Catholic University of America runs the National Study of Catholic Priests.
In 2022, we conducted a census of bishops, a nationally representative survey of priests, and in-depth interviews with priests.

In 2025, we introduce a longitudinal component with a follow-up survey of priests that includes questions about pastoral priorities.

The National Study of Catholic Priests is happy to announce a second wave of our nationally representative survey, administered again by Gallup. This longitudinal study, which involves observing the same subjects over an extended period, enables us to track changes, identify patterns, and establish causal relationships in ways that a single survey cannot. By collecting data at multiple points in time, longitudinal studies provide a more comprehensive understanding of how variables interact and influence outcomes, offering deeper insights into the dynamics of the priesthood.

A letter from Cardinals Dolan and Gregory shows their support of the study as well.

What This Study Aims to Accomplish

This second wave focuses on understanding key issues affecting the priesthood today, including:

Changes in well-being and burnout: By tracking trends over time, we aim to uncover factors that influence the health and well-being of priests, identifying opportunities for meaningful support.
Effects of recent changes: TCP received feedback after the initial study, indicating that some bishops and dioceses were looking to make changes in view of the findings. Evaluating how policies and practices implemented in the past couple of years might have impacted clergy life and ministry will provide actionable insights for Church leadership.
Pastoral needs and priorities: The study will highlight current challenges and priorities in pastoral ministry, offering a clearer picture of how priests can be better supported in living out their vocations fully.

Wave 2 Survey: What to Expect

For priests invited to participate: your continued involvement is crucial to the study's success. Your perspectives will directly inform strategies to strengthen the well-being and effectiveness of clergy in their vital work.

This spring, you may receive an email from our survey partner, Gallup, inviting you to participate in a brief 10-minute web-based survey. We’re looking to hear from the same priests who completed wave 1 of this study to see how attitudes and experiences have changed over the last several years.

A high response rate is essential to ensure the findings represent the diverse experiences and voices of priests nationwide.

As a token of our appreciation, you will receive a gift card via email upon completion of your survey. If you have any questions or issues completing the survey, please contact Gallup via details provided in the survey invitation email.

First Wave Results

On October 19, 2022, The Catholic Project released highlights from the largest study of Catholic priests in over 50 years. (Also available in Spanish from La Revista Catolica). On November 7, 2023, further insights were released, addressing polarization, generational dynamics, and the ongoing impact of the abuse crisis.

This study involved a census of bishops (131 responses); a survey of 10,000 priests (3516 responses); and in-depth interviews of over 100 priests.