More than 1,300 enter Catholic Church in Ohio diocese

More than 1,300 people entered the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio, during 2025–26, according to figures recently compiled by the diocese.

In its July 27 report, The Catholic Times, the diocese’s official newspaper, said 614 catechumens were baptized and 352 candidates were received into full communion, with most welcomed into the Church at Easter. Another 405 Catholics completed their initiation through confirmation or First Holy Communion.

Earlier this year, The Catholic Times reported that a growing number of adults in their mid-20s to early 30s were seeking to enter the Church throughout the diocese.

Marlon De La Torre, senior director of the diocesan Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, said in the report that many were searching for clarity and deeper meaning.

“They express an ardent desire for truth,” he said, adding, “In their journey, they consistently come to the realization that the Catholic Church provides the answers to their questions about the origin of God, faith, the person of Jesus Christ, how to deal with despair.”

The final figures reflected participation throughout the diocese, with some of the highest totals recorded in northern and western Columbus and surrounding counties.

According to The Catholic Times, the growing number of people entering the Church in Columbus reflects a broader trend across the state, with the Diocese of Cleveland reporting a 198% increase in catechumens baptized into the faith between 2020 and 2026.