The number of adult baptisms for Easter in France has tripled over ten years to 13,000, according to historian Christophe Dickès. This adds to 8,100 adolescents, despite scandals and declining religious practice. New converts seek a 'vertical' Church that is clear and firm.
Historian Christophe Dickès analyzes in a tribune the dramatic rise in adult Easter baptisms in France. In the 2010s, the average was 4,000 per year; it has tripled to 13,000, with over 80% acceleration in the last three years. This includes 8,100 adolescents receiving the sacrament.
The trend persists despite sex scandals, the Catholic minority in society, and widespread religious illiteracy. 'The new baptized want a vertical Church,' Dickès states, highlighting their desire for an institution clear in doctrine and firm in commitment.
Other reports confirm the pattern: 21,386 catechumens will receive the sacrament this year, 3,600 more than in 2025, a 400% increase over ten years. Parishes face the challenge of retaining these neophytes. A record was also set at Lourdes with nearly 180 military baptisms.
