France records over 20,000 adult baptisms in 2026 despite secularization
Pope Leo XIV met with new Catholics in Paris as France records a record 20% growth in adult baptisms, totaling over 20,000 in 2026.
TL;DR
- France recorded over 20,000 adult and adolescent baptisms in 2026, a 20% increase from 2025 and a 45% increase from 2024.
- Pope Leo XIV encouraged the Catholic Church in France to "find a wise balance" between welcoming new members and educating them in the faith.
- Despite a secular society, the Church continues to see record numbers of baptisms.
- The Pope met with new and future Catholics and leaders at the Catholic Institute of Paris.
- An upcoming synodal assembly will discuss "Catechumens and Neophytes: New Perspectives for the Life of Our Church."
- New Catholics shared their journeys, highlighting the search for meaning and the challenge of finding their place in the community.