Bishop Approves Diocesan Reconfiguration Plan, Iobserve, May 23, 2010

Bishop Approves Diocesan Reconfiguration Plan

Iobserve
May 23, 2010

http://iobserve.org/rn0521a.html

[bishop's statement]

Springfield Bishop Timothy A. McDonnell has approved the implementation of a reconfiguration plan for the Diocese of Springfield to take effect July 1.

Under the outline of the plan, 36 percent of the current workforce, or 49 positions will be eliminated from the diocesan payroll. A number of retained employees will take on greater duties and still others will have their hours reduced. Some current departments and agencies will be eliminated entirely with any critical duties being reassigned.

In total, the diocese is seeking to close a $5 million projected deficit for the upcoming fiscal year 2010-2011. Diocesan officials have stated that these changes will narrow that gap considerably but not entirely.

In a statement issued May 20, Bishop McDonnell explained the philosophy behind the changes being made. (Click here to read the entire statement.)

"This review has required that we evaluate everything we do in terms of three critical criteria: what is canonically or civilly required, what is best handled through a centralized diocesan operation, and finally what is best undertaken by parishes or groups of parishes with limited support from the diocese," he wrote.

Starting July 1 the diocesan central ministries and services will be realigned under three broad categories: Pastoral Ministries and Services, Evangelization, and Stewardship and Temporalities. Separately, all canonical requirements, including the Vicar General's Office, the Chancellor's Office and the Tribunal will continue to meet their obligations.

The diocese finds itself in this situation because of, as Bishop McDonnell stated, the "proverbial 'perfect storm'" caused by a downturn in the economic markets, the increased financial demands to subsidize Catholic schools in western Massachusetts, and some parishes' failure to meet their financial obligations.

The bishop did make clear that, contrary to the speculation of some, the settlements for abuse victims did not play a significant role in this financial crisis.

In closing, Bishop McDonnell wrote, "I ask all to join me in praying for our co-workers who have lost their jobs. They have been true 'co-workers in the vineyard of the Lord.' I can't thank them enough for all they have done and all they have been to the diocese.

"With all my heart I hate to lose their services," the bishop wrote. "I ask God to bless and lead them on new pilgrim paths. I pray as well for our entire diocesan community as we grapple with these changes in the days, week and months to come."