Archdiocese of Baltimore Plans to Close Two-Thirds of Catholic Churches

The Archdiocese of Baltimore is set to make significant changes to its Catholic churches, with plans to close about two-thirds of its current parishes in the coming years. This decision, part of the Seek the City Proposal, aims to address issues such as deferred maintenance, low Mass attendance, and unmet opportunities to better serve the community.

Currently, the Archdiocese has 61 parishes at 59 worship sites in Baltimore City and Baltimore County. If the plan is adopted, this number would be reduced to 21 parishes at 26 worship sites. The changes would take effect gradually on a case-by-case basis.

Archbishop William E. Lori is hosting public input sessions to gather feedback on the proposal. The final decision is expected to be made in June. The plan includes merging parishes, with some having additional worship sites aside from their main church to remain open in a reduced capacity. However, some churches may close altogether.

Despite the changes, no schools will be affected, ensuring that all Catholic schools, including those at churches slated for closure, will remain open. The Archdiocese emphasized that the downsizing is not related to its previous bankruptcy filing, stating that the Seek the City process began before the passage of the law lifting the statute of limitations for child sex abuse lawsuits.

The proposed new parishes and boundaries can be found on the Archdiocese’s website. The plan aims to realign and consolidate resources to better serve the community and address the decline in Mass attendance. Public input sessions are scheduled for April 25 and April 30, with virtual attendance options available.