Diocese of Gaylord announces parish restructuring amid priest shortage, closes 2 churches скачать в хорошем качестве

Diocese of Gaylord announces parish restructuring amid priest shortage, closes 2 churches

The Diocese of Gaylord has announced a significant reorganization plan that will impact parishes across northern Michigan. The restructuring will result in the closure of two churches, Saint Mary Parish in Burt Lake and Jesus the Good Shepherd Parish in Atlanta, adding to two that were already closed. Additionally, 20 churches will be designated for limited use, meaning they can host events like funerals and weddings but will not hold regular Mass. Bishop Jeffrey J. Walsh of the Diocese of Gaylord explained that the changes follow extensive discussions and meetings throughout 2024. "The restructuring came about after several conversations at our Presbyteral council meetings, and we organized a series of spring meetings and then fall meetings. Lots of input and then prayerful consideration of all that input," Walsh said. The reorganization, effective July 1, aims to address a nationwide shortage of priests. "Currently we have one priest, for example, who has five churches that he oversees. We have two with four churches and many with three and two. This plan will eliminate is anyone with the four or five parish cluster, and the predominant ones would be priests who have two in a cluster or a stand alone parish. This tries to focus it a little bit more. Makes them more available and present," Walsh said. The new plan will reduce the number of parishes each priest oversees, allowing for more focused and available clergy. Bishop Walsh also highlighted efforts to attract new vocations to the priesthood. "A whole lot of investment in resources and social media things that hopefully is going to be attractive to helping young men or even sometimes older men can discern a vocation to the priesthood. God never stops calling, it's a response crisis. We have to help people generously respond to that call and what's what we've made a really strong investment in," he said. While acknowledging that the changes may be daunting, Bishop Walsh expressed optimism about the future. "The diocese underwent this planning process for a real sense of renewal of vibrant parish life and missionary zeal, and that they will have a healthier clergy serving them body, mind and spirit and that there is new opportunities that await us," he said. The closed parishes will not reopen, but the limited-use parishes could potentially resume full operations in the future. READ MORE: https://upnorthlive.com/news/local/di... -------------------------------- For all of your news, weather and sports needs: http://www.upnorthlive.com Like us on Facebook:   / upnorthlive   Follow us on twitter: @upnorthlive.com Download our app, available for iPhone and Android! #traversecity #localnews #news #video #upnorthlive #michigan