Have the costs of the clergy abuse scandal affected diocesan finances and precipitated potential closings?
The clergy-abuse scandal has been a matter of grave concern to the Roman Catholic Church, and the Diocese has addressed and continues to address this sensitive issue, while protecting children. The strategic planning process was not inaugurated as a result of the clergy-abuse scandal. To date, settlements and child protective measures have cost the Diocese approximately three percent of its annual budget. Expenses were paid from the Diocesan central fund and do not affect the strategic planning process or parish reconfigurations.
