A new handout created in 2022

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Imagine looking 10 years ahead, what are your hopes for the future of religious life? The 2020 NRVC/CARA Study on Recent Vocations to Religious Life captured a snapshot of religious life today and provided a glimpse into the next decade. With over 1,500 newer entrants commenting, it is clear that the future of religious life is filled with abundant hope. This handout contains a glimpse of some of their hopes, a prayer for abundant hope, and four infographics.

Newer members realize that they have entered religious institutes that are, for the most part, characterized by smaller congregations and an aging membership. They are realistic about this reality while at the same time optimistic about the future and their role as members of these institutes.

Newer members eagerly anticipate the evolution of religious life in the next ten years. They look forward to increased collaboration across generations. They also recognize the increased cultural diversity of the Catholic Church in the United States, and they look forward to ensuring that religious life reflects that diversity. Newer members desire members of all ages to be committed to living the charism more vibrantly with a greater effort to live in solidarity with the poor and marginalized.

Download the handout or order printed copies in the online store.