FUN FACT: Searches for “HOW TO BECOME CATHOLIC” increased by 373% across the world on Easter Sunday and that first week of Easter through April 26, and since the announcement of Pope Leo XIV the search is up 33%, according to Google Trends data.
The data, initial compiled by Vatican Tickets & Tours, call the search’s jaw dropping number “unprecedented.”
No accurate data exists for the “why” of the search, but many believe non-Catholics were moved by the Holy Spirit throughPope Francis’ insistent return to the people after his 38-day hospitalization for pneumonia and other complications, despite cautions from his doctors.
The late Holy Father spoke to the world on Easter Sunday (the day before his death), declaring the Risen Lord is for all.
“Easter is the celebration of life! God created us for life and wants the human family to rise again! In his eyes, every life is precious! The life of a child in the mother’s womb, as well as the lives of the elderly and the sick, who in more and more countries are looked upon as people to be discarded…. On this day, I would like all of us to hope anew and to revive our trust in others, including those who are different than ourselves, or who come from distant lands, bringing unfamiliar customs, ways of life and ideas! For all of us are children of God!”
Immediately after the announcement of Pope Leo, Catholic Connect posted that Google searches for “How to become Catholic” surged by 33%.
Look at that number again – 33!
Is it significant? Hmmm.
A Godwink? Let’s think so.
Oh, and FYI, Catholic Answers media ministry provides a pdf, YouTube video, and article to satisfy the answer to one of the seemingly most searched google topics of late. Go to: https://www.catholic.com/tract/how-to-become-a-catholic
Make it a great day!