24 of 36 families in Diocese to counter-propose mergers, closures

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — 24 of the 36 families of parishes in the Diocese of Buffalo are planning to make counterproposals to recommended mergers and closures that were proposed last month, the diocese said in a statement on Monday.

Formal written alternative proposals to the Diocese are due by Aug. 5.

“We look forward to meeting with all of our families of parishes to discuss what is best as we move forward with our Road to Renewal,” said Father Bryan Zielenieski, diocesan Vicar for Renewal and Development.

Final recommendations for mergers and closures are scheduled for Sept. 1 after meetings with all 36 families occur from Aug. 12 through Aug. 22.

Mergers and closures were originally proposed due to financial troubles from payouts to settle child sexual abuse cases, declining Mass attendance, and a priest shortage.

Latest Local News

Buffalo Music Hall of Fame announces Class of 2024

Hochul begins push that would ban cell phones in schools

Returning champions back for Porter Cup

State audit critical of Lancaster’s handling of town financials

North Tonawanda Common Council approves 2-year ban on crypto mining establishments

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.