"Bishop Michael Barber stated, "We cannot allow nostalgia and sentimentality to hold back the message of the Gospel. While we love our local church building, the church has never been solely a building.""
"The diocese's financial strain stems from more than 300 lawsuits filed between 2019 and 2022, after a change in California law temporarily lifted the statute of limitations on child sexual abuse claims."
"Bankruptcy filings from 2023 estimate total liabilities between $100 million and $500 million, indicating a severe financial crisis for the diocese."
"Residents expressed shock over the closures, as many consider their church a significant part of their community and spiritual life."
The Catholic Diocese of Oakland is closing 12 parishes and a pastoral center in the East Bay due to financial difficulties stemming from over 300 child sexual assault lawsuits. Bishop Michael Barber emphasized the need for these closures despite the emotional impact on congregations. The diocese faces liabilities between $100 million and $500 million, worsened by declining Mass attendance and a shortage of clergy. The decision reflects a shift in focus from physical church buildings to the broader message of the Gospel.
Read at sfist.com
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