What to know about the archdiocese proposal

The Archdiocese of Baltimore has released a detailed proposal that would radically change how the Catholic Church operates in the city.

Here’s what to know about what the church calls “Seek the City to Come,” its initiative to grapple with shrinking congregations in many urban parishes, some of which also have aging buildings and large campuses.

What’s closing?

If the plan is approved, the church would eliminate 61 existing parishes and establish 21 larger ones. Dozens of churches would merge with others, see their buildings repurposed or close.

What would be created?

The initiative’s draft suggests centering worship activities at 17 parishes. Four of the new-style parishes would contain two “worship sites.” The plan would also create four or more “radiating parishes,” with a worship site at the center and other sites providing specific services. At least one storefront church would be created.

Has this happened in other cities?

The Baltimore proposal features aspects of similar initiatives in Cleveland, Chicago, Cincinnati, Detroit and St. Louis.

5 historic churches that would anchor new dioceses

Twenty-six of the 59 Catholic churches in Baltimore would continue functioning as multipurpose “worship sites.” Here are some of the more prominent that would continue on their present sites:

„ Basilica of the Assumption, Mount Vernon;

„ Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, Homeland;

„ St. Leo the Great, Little Italy;

„ Sacred Heart of Jesus, Highlandtown;

„ St. Bernardine, Edgewood

5 landmark churches that would go away

„ St Vincent de Paul,

Jonestown;

„ St. Joseph’s Monastery, Irvington;

„ Shrine of the Sacred Heart, Mount Washington;

„ Our Lady of Good Counsel, Locust Point;

„ St. Pius X, North Baltimore

Why is this happening?

Attendance at city Catholic churches has cratered, leaving its infrastructure expensive, unwieldy and overly big and the conduct of its ministries inadequate to modern demands. On any given weekend, only about 2,000 of 25,000 seats in the pews are occupied.

What happens next?

Catholics will have the chance to comment on the proposal either online or at two town hall meetings this month. After it’s adjusted with their input, it goes to archdiocesan leaders for consideration.

Who makes the final call?

Archbishop William E. Lori will sign off on a final version in May or June.