Church Closures Coming: North Louisiana Catholic Parishes Set for Major Overhaul

SHREVEPORT, LA – Major changes are coming to Catholic Churches in north Louisiana. Some churches will be closing.

A letter from Bishop Francis Malone was presented in all local churches over the weekend. This message outlines consolidations of churches into what’s described as “families of faith.

The Bishop’s letter says this “strategic initiative is designed to strengthen our Catholic communities, enhance collaboration, and ensure the long-term vitality of our parishes and missions.”

This consolidation plan was done with consultation from experts and driven by data is in response to changes in church missions and changes in the availability of pastoral leaders.

Changes will be going into effect on July 1. All churches in the north Louisiana region will be organized into new Families of Faith. Each new Family of Faith will included several parish churches with combined leadership structures.

What Is the Goal of Catholic Church Consolidation?

The Bishop's letter says this plan is an effort to "strengthen our Catholic Communities, enhance collaboration and ensure the long-term viability of our parishes and missions." Part of the problem facing the church is a shift in demographics and declining attendance at church services and events.

This plan will put parishes into groups of churches that are served by a team that will will work together to provide the services offered by the church. Resources will be shared and priests will now serve as leaders of more than one church and in many cases, they will lead at least 3 churches.

Members of these churches can expect to see changes in schedules as priests and staff work to put together a plan to continue to have mass and other programming in all of the churches in the diocese.

What Catholic Churches Will Combine and Which Churches Will Close?

Bishop Malone says

While change brings challenges, it also offers an opportunity for renewal. As we embark on this journey, let us do so with faith, trust and a shared commitment to serving Christ and His Church as pilgrims of hope. Let us continue to pray for our diocese, our priests and all who serve, trusting in the Holy Spirit to guide us forward.

 

What Happens Now with Catholic Church Changes?

There will be parish-wide meetings to explain the plan and answer questions you might have. Priests and other leaders will work to ensure a smooth transition at all local churches. July 1 is the date for full implementation.