Tight finances lead to reduced subsidies for Miami parishes, schools

Published: 2008-05-08

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- In a budgetary move meant to maintain ministries and meet the needs of a growing Catholic population, the Archdiocese of Miami will reduce funding for financially strapped parishes and schools. Archbishop John C. Favalora told department heads in April that growing needs brought on by an increase in the Catholic population and rising poverty in the three counties of the archdiocese are forcing officials to prioritize spending and reduce subsidies to cover parish debt and to cover shortfalls in the operation of parish schools. "In today's economy and the circle of poverty affecting our community, I must be a good steward and can only do what our finances will allow," the archbishop said. "With the current financial status facing every corporation, institution, organization and family, we too must be financially responsible. Each year a greater number of parishes and programs are seeking our financial help and therefore we must prioritize," he added. "We can only work with what we have."

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