30 of 36 families in Diocese to counter-propose mergers, closures

Correction: This story has been edited to note that now 30 out of the 36 families of parishes are planning to make counterproposals, not 24.

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — 30 of the 36 families of parishes in the Diocese of Buffalo are planning to make counterproposals to recommended mergers and closures that were proposed last month, the diocese said in a statement on Monday.

Formal written alternative proposals to the Diocese are due by Aug. 5.

“We look forward to meeting with all of our families of parishes to discuss what is best as we move forward with our Road to Renewal,” said Father Bryan Zielenieski, diocesan Vicar for Renewal and Development.

In an interview with WIVB News 4, Zielenieski said the submission of counterproposals is “not surprising” to the diocese and that they want input from the parish communities.

Final recommendations for mergers and closures are scheduled for Sept. 1 after meetings with all 36 families occur from Aug. 12 through Aug. 22.

Mergers and closures were originally proposed due to financial troubles from payouts to settle child sexual abuse cases, declining Mass attendance, and a priest shortage.

Watch WIVB’s full interview with Father Zielenieski in the video player below.

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.