Research shows Catholic youth ministers are experiencing more complex roles

Catholic youth and young adult pastoral leaders are juggling more responsibilities and facing new challenges as they accompany young people in the evolving Church ministry, according to research from Ministry Training Source (MTS).

The study found that younger generations of ministry leaders are serving in increasingly complex roles and often balancing multiple ministries. They are also facing concerns about pay, role clarity, and long-term sustainability.

Despite the challenges, most continue to report that the ministry brings them joy.

Of the leaders MTS examined in the 2024 research study , 87% said their ministry “often” or “always” brings them joy, 80% said the ministry they do is “always” or “often” effective, and 65% said they “always” or “often” have community support and networking available.

The research was conducted by Charlotte McCorquodale, the president of MTS, a nonprofit that serves pastoral ministry organizations in the Catholic Church.

The group’s latest report, “Illuminating Trends: A Study of Pastoral Leaders Serving Catholic Youth and Young Adults 2000-2025,” synthesizes findings from five national studies. It includes interviews and surveys from a…