The new picture challenges clergy morale. In focus groups during the study, priests reported frustration that the administrative responsibilities and the sometimes unrealistic expectations of parishioners give them little time for the sacramental and interpersonal aspects of ministry that they find so fulfilling. These same demands lead to increased isolation and less mentoring from brother priests. In addition, the rapid growth of population in some areas, and the decline in other areas, combined with the increased ethnic diversity, and an evolving sense of parish life and organization, means that parish ministry is far more complex for priests today. Priests are encouraged by the growth in the diaconate and in parish lay ministry but express a desire for a core concerted national-level conversation among bishops that will lead to a more holistic understanding of the issues involved and possibly to more creative long term solutions.
Deacons report being well utilized.
Catholics report satisfaction with Church leadership. The study found that while most Catholics notice that there has been a decline in the number of priests, less than one in four say they have been personally affected by this change. In fact, over 75 percent of the people report that they have not been affected by a decline in the number of priests. Younger Catholics are least likely to say that they have noticed or been affected by the decline. Catholics most favor increasing use of deacons and lay ministers to help meet the needs of Catholics in a time of fewer priests.