Funny. I thought it was the JPII generation. At least they are crediting PBXVI with something too. As for Pope Francis, I think it is too soon to credit him with influencing young men to enter the seminary. But, give him time.
Of course, the main reason is the world is getting tired of secularism and selfishness. Suddenly Jesus Christ is catching on with the younger generation. All glory be to God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
One more thing. I am a bit surprised that the phenomenon of more seminarians has not also been seen in Protestant Seminaries. Since I really think it is mostly the Holy Spirit at work in renewing Christianity here. Does anyone have an idea about this?
Do you think the expansion of candidates to include women, and now also the gay community is turning off the straight men?
Catholic parishes which are returning to the concept of altar boys instead mixed boys and girls, are seeing a lot more boys interested in becoming altar boys. Just a fact to share with everyone.