Detroit Archdiocese Initiates Major Restructuring Process
The Archdiocese of Detroit has initiated a significant restructuring process in response to declining Catholic attendance in southeast Michigan. Approximately 50 years ago, the archdiocese served around 1.5 million Catholics. Today, that number has decreased to roughly 900,000, with only about 150,000 attending Mass regularly.
Restructuring Process Commences
Over 175 priests convened at Sacred Heart Major Seminary for a three-day meeting focused on restructuring efforts. Father Mario Amore, the Executive Director of Parish Renewal, described this initiative as “Step 1” in the restructuring journey.
Amore highlighted the aim of the restructuring: “We are taking a look at all of our 209 parishes and analyzing statistical and demographic information.” The archdiocese reports that nearly 70% of its parishes see fewer than 600 attendees each week. Furthermore, the number of priests is expected to decline by approximately 40% over the next decade.
Implications of Restructuring
Father Amore emphasized the need for transparency, noting that this process may lead to the merging or closing of certain buildings. He stated, “This is a process that has to begin somewhere, and we’re starting with the priests.” The restructuring discussions include configurations for parishes and priest assignments, with proposals to be shared with parishioners later this year.
- Total parishes: 209
- Current Catholic population: 900,000
- Regular Mass attendance: 150,000
- Projected decline in priests: 40% over the next 10 years
- % of parishes with fewer than 600 attendees: nearly 70%
Community Involvement
Father Edward Zaorski, a priest with over 30 years at St. James Catholic Church in Novi, expressed optimism about the process. “I’m excited for the process… I’ve always seen a positive outcome,” he remarked.
Wendy Miller-Bueche, a parishioner from Our Lady of Sorrows in Farmington Hills, acknowledged the necessity for changes and the emotional weight of closure decisions. “If we think of the faith community in Detroit, it presents an opportunity for priests to do their good works,” she said.
By spring, listening sessions will be conducted at each parish, allowing parishioners to voice their feedback on the restructuring. Father Amore noted that in similar processes nationwide, feedback from parishioners often leads to changes in 20% to 40% of proposed models.
The restructuring of the Archdiocese of Detroit represents a critical step in adapting to the evolving landscape of worship and community engagement in the region.
