The Archdiocese of Los Angeles announced on Mar. 26 that it expects a record number of catechumens and candidates—8,598 people—to enter the Catholic Church at Easter this year.
This marks a significant increase in adult conversions to Catholicism in the region, following steady growth in recent years. In previous years, the archdiocese welcomed 3,462 new members in 2023, 3,596 in 2024, and a notable jump to 5,587 in 2025.
Church leaders say there is no single explanation for this surge. Some attribute it to renewed spiritual interest following the COVID-19 pandemic or the effects of the National Eucharistic Revival across the country. Others see it as a response to broader uncertainty and hardship experienced by many people today.
For individuals like Malain Houmoeung and Jennifer Solares Gonzalez, personal journeys have led them to join the Church. Houmoeung said her conversion began during a difficult period: “I remember just praying, like, oh God, I’m sorry, can you just please help me out? I don’t know what to do anymore. Like, I’m just at my wits’ end.” After attending Mass and starting OCIA classes at St. Cornelius Church in Long Beach she found belonging: “When I was going to Mass, I felt a lot closer,” she said. “I just felt so much more of a belonging there and just appreciating the customs and traditions that have been passed down.”
Gonzalez described how her experience with loss influenced her decision: “I remember going to Mass that first Sunday after he had passed,” she said about her uncle’s death. “And I felt this overwhelming amount of grief but also… peace at the same time.” She added that being part of the Catholic community gave her acceptance: “There was always this sense of acceptance and grace,” Gonzalez said.
Other new Catholics shared similar stories about finding peace through faith amid personal struggles or family changes. Cameron Smith reflected on his journey: “I think increasing and building my relationship with God and through this Church has just helped me find more peace within that.” Daniel Hernandez cited family as his motivation: “I want our kids to be Catholic,” he said.
As these individuals prepare for baptism or confirmation during Easter celebrations throughout Los Angeles County parishes—including large gatherings such as those at Holy Redeemer Church in Montrose—the archdiocese continues to witness what some describe as signs of spiritual hunger among its population.
