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January 13, 2025
South Bend, Indiana – As attendance numbers for Catholic churches throughout the South Bend, Indiana area came trickling in late this weekend, it became apparent that the impact of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish’s College Football Playoff run is showing up in the pews on Sundays.
“People are absolutely stoked right now, and they are praying harder than ever,” said Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades via confessional booth late on Sunday evening.
Capacity for all churches within the diocese amounts to around 93,000—which would be considered small-ish by SEC standards—however, Rhoades says every church within his diocese’ boundary was standing-room only after Notre Dame‘s thrilling 27-24 victory over Penn State.
“We had to bring in some temporary bleacher seating to accommodate the onslaught of new believers,” Rhoades went on.
As for the attendees, what did the composition of the newly devout look like? Rhoades said it was a nice mix of people from all walks of life.
“We’re seeing enthusiasm from across the life spectrum: young people, old people, and everyone in between. You have to remember, it’s been nearly 40 years since the Irish finished on top of the college football world at the end of the season, and now that Catholic football fans are starting to see the fruits of their prayers on the field, they’re realizing the power of prayer, and they’re coming back in droves,” Rhoades said.
So what’s the lesson from all of this at the end of the day? Rhoades said simply, “Wining cures all,” before concluding the confession.
