Bishop of Youngstown Diocese plans to move to city
Bishop Murry wants to live in Youngstown, seat of the diocese, and be part of the city’s rejuvenation.
YOUNGSTOWN — In this tough real estate market, Catholic Diocese of Youngstown might be praying for divine intervention as it tries to sell the bishop’s residence in Liberty Township.
The home on Logan Way was put up for sale three months ago.
Bishop George V. Murry said there are several reasons for the move.
“I would like to live in the city. ... I grew up in a city [Camden, N.J.] and am comfortable in cities.” As a Jesuit priest, he spent time as a pastoral associate in Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia and served as an auxiliary bishop in Chicago.
The bishop is moving to a residence on Gypsy Lane. “It’s easily accessible to the chancery and [St. Columba] cathedral,” both on West Wood Street. He said he’s been looking since he came to the Youngstown diocese, and the time is right for the move. He also noted the diocese bought the house on Gypsy for a reasonable price.
“[The sale also ] is part of the downsizing of the diocese to a certain extent,” Bishop Murry said. “I wanted to take the lead in that.”
Bishop Murry described the house on Logan Way as “a tool” used by the bishop to his work.” He said he has used the house as a place for priest and chancery meetings and social functions of the diocese.
But, he acknowledged that the large house in Liberty, situated on about 2 1/2 acres with five bedrooms, two family rooms, large living room and dining room, is much more than he needs. The actual move date isn’t set yet.
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