CARA Annual Entrance Class Report is published

Author: Sister Deborah Marie Borneman, SS.C.M., Director of Mission Integration

Sometimes, it is easier to conclude that no one is entering formation, however the recently published CARA 2025 Entrance Class Report shows that 320 people entered 111 religious institutes in the United States. This total amount includes 137 women and 183 men from 15 countries who speak 15 languages. Nearly half (46%) said it was easy to discuss their vocation with family, and 98% were drawn by the institute’s charism, mission, and spirituality. The average age of respondents of the Entrance Class of 2025 is 29.  

Given that the majority of newer entrants first become acquainted with their religious institute through the recommendation of a family member, friend, or advisor, it is also significant to note that detachment from family and friends after entrance is one of the biggest challenges they face. Newer entrants found community to be the most challenging aspect of religious life and these aspects to be very important:  

94% female, 73% male                          Living with other members  

92% female, 72% male Praying with other members 

87% female, 63% male Socializing/sharing leisure time together 

83% female, 66% male Sharing meals together 

74% female, 55% male Working with other members 

 Read the full report and other studies on the NRVC Website.