The October Count is an annual process in which parishes across the Diocese of Erie record Sunday Mass attendance throughout the month of October. Collected across all 13 counties, this data offers a consistent snapshot of participation and supports ongoing pastoral planning.

Every day across the Diocese of Erie, priests and parish communities serve the faithful through the celebration of Mass, the sacraments and ministries that accompany people through every stage of life. From city parishes to rural missions, the church remains present — walking with families, forming disciples and sustaining vibrant Catholic life across all 13 counties.










Sunday Mass attendance across the Diocese of Erie reflects both long-term decline and recent signs of stabilization.

After peaking at 36,927 in 2019, attendance dropped significantly in 2021 before gradually increasing in the years that followed. From 2024 to 2025, total attendance rose from 27,629 to 28,490 — an increase of 861 people, or 3%.

The percent change column reflects growth from 2024 to 2025 in each deanery:

• Erie West and Bradford increased by 5%
• Erie East and Greenville increased by 4%
• St. Marys increased by 2%
• DuBois and Oil City remained steady

Across all deaneries, participation has either increased or held steady over the past year, pointing to a broader pattern of consistency across the diocese.

For further detail and a more in-depth look at the data, visit one of the sections below or download the full report above.