ERIE, PA. Diocese plans to lay off 10, make changes

The bishop said the planning effort calls for increased evangelization.
ERIE, Pa. -- The Catholic Diocese of Erie announced Thursday it would cut 10 workers and make other changes to operate more economically.
The diocese said a restructuring of its central administrative offices at St. Mark Catholic Center would begin Jan. 1.
The statement said a few other workers would be made part time. It was not clear when the cuts would occur, and the diocese said in its statement it would make no further comment. The diocese did not respond to requests for more information on its workforce and budget.
According to the diocese, the layoffs and changes follow a five-month planning process. The diocese has 225,000 members in 13 counties, including Mercer County.
Funds raised
The diocese's capital stewardship campaign completed earlier this year raised $36.5 million. According to the statement, more than half of the money stayed in parishes and most of the diocesan share went for endowments for ministries, educational and capital projects.
Bishop Donald W. Trautman likened the situation to companies tightening their belt during a bad economy. The bishop said those losing their jobs will get a severance package consisting of health benefits, salary and outplacement assistance.
The bishop, in the statement, said the planning effort called for increased evangelization. He has appointed Monsignor Thomas McSweeney and Monsignor Conrad Kraus co-directors of the Office of Evangelization.
Monsignor McSweeney will be responsible for communications, public relations and the diocesan publication, the Lake Shore Visitor. Monsignor Kraus will direct worship, outreach and confirmation of adults.
The statement said the education office directed by the Rev. John Schultz; Catholic Charities, headed by Monsignor Michael McGraw; and financial services under the direction of David Murphy have already been realigned. No details were given.