Why the “Business” of Being a Priest is Facing a Crisis in 2026
photo courtesy of OLMC
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
On paper, Catholicism is having a massive resurgence. In reality, the pews are full, but the altars are empty. Explore the “priest shortage” crisis and why Gen Z is flocking back to tradition.
Ridgewood NJ, The headlines look like a spiritual gold rush. The global Catholic population has surged past 1.4 billion. In the U.S., the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress drew over 50,000 people, and apps like Hallow are topping the charts with millions of users seeking a deeper prayer life.
Continue reading The Catholic Paradox: Why Churches Are Closing Just as a “Catholic Comeback” Begins
