Vocations: On the RISE

Last Sunday was Vocations Sunday in the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales; also known as Good Shepherd Sunday.
In 2010, it made the news that vocations were on the rise (Read more here). This was largely reported just after Pope Benedict XVI's visit to the UK. However many suggested that this very visit would have an impact on the Catholics of England and Wales and prompt more young Catholics to consider a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. This seems to have been the case:

"Entry to religious orders has continued to rise in England and Wales during 2012. For the third year running, the number of women entering religious communities has grown and this year has seen a noticeable increase in the number of men joining as well."
"Last year also saw the highest number of ordinations to the diocesan priesthood in nearly ten years, with 31 priests ordained for the dioceses of England and Wales." (Read more here)

This looks set to grow with with 41 projected for 2013. This is a rapid increase from just 20 in 2011.

Why do you think that this is happening? Does this indicate a bright future for the Catholic Church in the UK? Is the change in the way young people are encouraged to discren their vocation? Is there better support for those who consider this type of vocation?
The National Office for Vocation is found here: http://www.ukvocation.org
They have published a variety of resources for Vocations Sunday here: http://www.ukvocation.org/vocations-sunday-resources
GCSE students may also find this site helpful: http://www.calledtoday.com/