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.

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.

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.

Why This Study Matters

Building upon the foundation of the initial survey, this phase aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the priesthood in the United States. The longitudinal design is particularly valuable because it reveals how circumstances evolve over time, allowing us to identify causal relationships and understand the factors driving changes in priests' lives and ministries. This approach offers deeper insights than a single snapshot could provide.

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

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.

The second wave of the NSCP is a critical step in advancing our understanding of the US Catholic priesthood and addressing the needs of clergy today.

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.