STL Catholics

“When determining how to respond to such a pressing need, discussion in dioceses around the world typically starts with ‘pastoral planning.’ This term usually describes a process that starts with the question, “Where can the Church no longer afford to be due to finances or the number of priests?” We know the answer to this question often leads to parish closures. In Philadelphia, the answer to this question has resulted in numerous closures in places like North Philadelphia, West Philadelphia, & Chester.

I do not want to perpetuate this cycle. I want to embark on a new form of pastoral planning by asking a new question, “Where does the Church need to be and how?” We need to inspire a pastoral change of heart that focuses on those who are absent and that aligns our collective efforts across parishes, schools, and charitable ministries to listen, rebuild trust, and invite people home.”

– Archbishop Nelson J. Perez