Over the past several years, there has been a significant growth in the number of Catholics who live in the area of DeKalb County east of Decatur toward the Rockdale County line. Up to the present time these people have been served by both Saints Peter and Paul Parish, in whose territory this area lies, and by Corpus Christi Parish in Stone Mountain. It appears that the spiritual welfare of the people would be better served by a parish in their immediate area.

The dean and pastors in the immediate area have been consulted. The Archdiocesan Board of Consultors has considered their recommendations and, in turn, recommended to me that the parish should be established. I have accepted this recommendation.

Now, therefore, having implemented the required canonical consultations, I hereby decree the establishment of a parish in the eastern portion of DeKalb County with the following boundaries:

That portion of DeKalb County lying East of Panola Road; South of a line formed by Redan Road, DeShon Road and Stephenson Road to the Gwinnett County line; West of a line formed by the Gwinnett County line; South from Stephenson Road and continuing South and West along the Rockdale County line to its junction with Panola Road.

The name of the parish will be determined later upon the recommendation of the pastor after consultation with the parishioners.

The First Pastor of the parish will be Reverend John C. Kieran. The effective date for the establishment of the new parish in August 1, 1984.

I take this occasion to commend the pastors of Saints Peter and Paul and Corpus Christi parishes for the pastoral care they have rendered to the Catholics living in this area. I urge the parishioners of the new parish to lend their aid, support and counsel to their new pastor, confident that through the efforts of all it will develop into a vibrant Catholic Community.

Given in Atlanta, Georgia, this 25^th day of May, 1984.

Most Reverend Thomas A. Donnellan
Archbishopo of Atlanta