The Diocese of Raleigh, North Carolina, is witnessing its evangelization efforts help the region change from one with few Catholics to being an epicenter of conversions to the faith, according to a new report.
The diocese’s analysis of the 2024 Catholic World Report indicates that it now ranks first in the nation for conversion rates, with one new Catholic per 71 existing members — nearly six times the national average. In 2025 alone, the diocese had 4,838 new converts, according to an Oct. 27 report from the diocese.
Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama and other diocesan leaders credit this growth not only to strategy but to the grace of God.
“First it’s the Holy Spirit,” Vicar General Father Michael Burbeck said in an appearance on The Drew Mariani Show. “We can be grateful, but we can’t take credit as if it were our doing. Every conversion is a work of grace.”
This explosion in conversions is reflected in the surge of sacramental life, the diocese noted. Confirmations rose from 1,979 in 2003 to over 3,000 in 2023, while non-infant baptisms have soared, especially among Hispanic youth. This growth, the diocese noted, is especially remarkable in a state where Catholics still represent just 7% of the population.
Behind the statistics lies a diocesan culture centered on personal encounter with Christ. Bishop Zarama has championed a hands-on, missionary approach to faith formation. Programs like the “Always Be Ready” evangelization course and youth ministries like SALT at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Newton Grove, the diocese equips Catholics of all ages to know, love, and proclaim the Gospel.
A major force behind eastern North Carolina’s renewal is the Office of Evangelization and Discipleship (OED), which has focused on accessible, Spirit-led formation, according to the diocese’s report. This includes spiritual leadership training, conversion retreats led by the bishop, and creative online engagement. Podcasts, videos, and digital catechesis have expanded the diocese’s reach, especially among younger Catholics.
The 2025–2026 launch of a partnership with Father Robert Spitzer’s Magis Center is another key component. Designed to reconcile science and faith, the program tackles intellectual doubts head-on, using resources on Eucharistic miracles, Marian apparitions, and the Shroud of Turin. Early results show a 42% increase in belief among high school seniors.
Bishop Zarama reminded the faithful that this is just a start and expressed gratitude for parents, diocesan evangelization leadership, faith formation leaders in parishes, and supporters of the programs.
“It is only a beginning,” he said. “But it’s the beginnings of a success that everyone can be proud of because everyone is a part.”
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