Downsizing of Youngstown Diocese parishes from 113 to 87 is complete; What’s next?

Downsizing of Youngstown Diocese parishes from 113 to 87 is complete; What’s next?

By LINDA M. LINONIS

linonis@vindy.com

youngstown

The “R” word of reconfiguration is giving way to the “E” word of evangelization in the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown for the Rev. Nicholas Shori, director of the Parish Implementation Plan in the diocese.

He said the six-county diocese of Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, Ashtabula, Portage and Stark counties has consolidated 113 parishes to 87 and attained the goal of the reconfiguration plan announced by Bishop George V. Murry on May 28, 2010.

As the reconfiguration plan heads into its third year, Father Shori said the emphasis will be evangelization. “Evangelization is the ongoing examination of what’s going on in parishes ... evaluating growth, needs and financial status,” he said. Keeping closer taps in these areas will maintain the overall health of parishes and give church councils important operating information.

The reconfiguration process has had some “tender spots,” Father Shori said previously but overall the downsizing has been “transparent.” There is one appeal, which is in the hands of the Vatican. Two situations of churches with schools are being re-evaluated.

Read the full story Monday in The Vindicator and on Vindy.com.