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Why are we seeing an explosion of new Catholics?

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A Catholic Resurgence in France: Tradition as a Beacon Amid Multicultural Challenges In a striking development, France is witnessing a record-breaking surge in conversions to Catholicism , with 17,800 catechumens—10,384 adults and over 7,400 young people aged 11 to 17—set to be baptised during the Easter Vigil on April 19, 2025. This represents a 48% increase in adult baptisms compared to 2024, marking the highest figures since the French Bishops’ Conference began tracking such data in 2002. Archbishop Olivier de Germay of Lyon describes this not as a fleeting trend but a “dynamic,” a “sign from Heaven” that points to a deeper spiritual reawakening. Simultaneously, across Europe, particularly in nations like France, Sweden, and Norway, young people are increasingly drawn to traditional Catholicism, a phenomenon that stands in stark contrast to the cultural and political currents of globalism and multiculturalism. This resurgence underscores the enduring appeal of Catholic tradition and...
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More Bishops Like This Please Lord!

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Watch this from The Most Rev. Erik Varden, Bishop of Trondheim, Norway. I am increasingly aware of his quality. More bishops like this please Lord! Here he presents “Living with Wounds: The Passion in Theology and in Our Lives,” with an introduction by Bishop Kevin Rhoades. This event was sponsored by the McGrath Institute for Church Life, the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture, and the Department of Theology at the University of Notre Dame.
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Calvin Robinson Loses his License in the USA

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In this conversation, Katherine Bennett, Mark Lambert, and Gavin Ashenden discuss the recent cancellation of Anglican clergyman Calvin Robinson following his controversial speech at the National Pro-Life Summit. They explore the implications of his license revocation, the cultural backlash surrounding his use of humour, and the broader intersection of faith and politics. The discussion highlights the need for mentorship within the clergy and critiques the church's response to political advocacy, emphasizing the importance of strong voices in the pro-life movement.
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Bishop Eleganti Critiques Synodality's Shift from Christ-Centred Proclamation to Organisational Focus

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Bishop Marian Eleganti, a Swiss Catholic bishop and member of the Benedictine Order, is the latest prelate to express concerns regarding the current direction of the Catholic Church, particularly in relation to the concept of synodality and its implications under Pope Francis' pontificate (you can find his blog here in German and Italian). Bishop Eleganti's Article has four main themes: Synodality and Its Emphasis: Bishop Eleganti acknowledges the value of consultation and mutual listening within the Church. However, he critiques the current emphasis on synodality, suggesting that it has become a central focus overshadowing the Church's primary mission of proclaiming Jesus Christ. He points out that discussions often centre around organisational structures and inclusivity, rather than the core message of salvation through Christ. This allegation of introspection has been levelled at Pope Francis numerous times now, and the clear direction he has chosen to travel seems sta...
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Professor Tina Beattie’s Theology and Episcopal Inconsistencies

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ABOVE: Picture of Bishop Alan Williams attending the Tina Beattie lecture at Newhall and featured on the website of the Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre Introduction: Faithful Dialogue or Dissent? Professor Tina Beattie is a prominent Catholic personality and has been for many years. She is a regular contributor to Radio 4's Thought for the Day and is an active novelist and commentator with a special focus on women's issues. However, despite her notoriety, her theological positions often spark significant controversy within the Catholic community, particularly due to her public dissent from established Church teachings. The Catholic Church’s teaching on moral and social issues is not hastily formed opinion, but rather an organic synthesis of divine Revelation from sacred Scripture, a rich and nuanced Tradition shaped over 2,000 years, and the wisdom of the Magisterium—a living authority that has grappled with complex questions across centuries. Any approach that disregards th...
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The Impact of Fatherhood and Fidelity

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  Back in November, the  Catholic Unscripted team were invited to address the Catholic Man UK national conference at the historic Buckden Towers, Cambridgeshire. My talk was on the effect of fidelity - and infidelity - on family.
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Francis Gifts McElory Washington DC

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Incredible news is breaking in America regarding the replacement for the retiring bishop of Washington, D.C., the capital see of the United States. Cardinal Robert McElroy, a figure who ranks as one of the most openly heterodox bishops in the country, has been chosen for this significant position. This appointment is already generating widespread controversy and dismay among faithful Catholics and clergy. It is not only my perspective that McElroy's theological views are problematic; several other U.S. bishops share this concern. His appointment as cardinal was surprising in the first place, as he was elevated from the Diocese of San Diego rather than from a more prominent archdiocese such as Los Angeles. Traditionally, archdioceses like Los Angeles, the largest in the United States, are more likely sources for new cardinals. Archbishop José Gomez of Los Angeles, a staunchly orthodox bishop, has been repeatedly overlooked by Pope Francis, further intensifying criticism of McElroy...
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