Joliet Diocese faces financial struggles, announces closure of Catholic institutions
The Joliet Diocese, encompassing Will, DuPage, and Kendall counties, has declared the closure of five churches and two schools, citing financial constraints and a decline in mass attendance. The decision, attributed to “budgetary issues,” comes after a year-long evaluation process that stirred discontent among the faithful.
Bishop Ron Hicks’ office has pointed to diminishing mass attendance and financial challenges, yet remains silent on the profound impact of the decades-old priest sex abuse crisis on these closures. The diocese has been grappling with the aftermath of the abuse scandal for over two decades, with over 70 clerics accused of child molestation listed publicly.
While millions have been spent on legal settlements with victims, Bishop Hicks has chosen not to disclose the total financial burden or engage in discussions about the topic, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times in September.
In the announcement made on the diocesan website, Bishop Hicks acknowledged the changing landscape of the Church over the past 50 to 60 years. With fewer vocations to the priesthood, an aging active clergy, and the need for substantial repairs in aging churches, the diocese faces challenges exacerbated by prolonged deferred maintenance.