Number of Nuns, Monks and Friars is on the decline

A spokesperson for the Czech Bishop’s Conference has warned that the number of nuns, monks and friars in the Czech Republic is falling. The Czech Republic, which ranks as one of the most atheistic countries in Europe apparently has 1775 nuns and 785 monks and friars, whereas in 1995, the number was 2647 nuns and 959 monks and friars. The reasons that have been given are multi-fold, including the deaths of many older members and the fact that those lured by the church after the fall of communism have not been replaced with newer members in the ensuing years.