What is the Archdiocese of Detroit planning?

The Archdiocese of Detroit is planning a major restructuring process that will likely lead to the closing of some churches and the reassignment of priests in southeast Michigan.

Why is the Archdiocese of Detroit restructuring?

The Archdiocese is restructuring due to declines in the number of Catholics, participation in sacraments, and the number of priests. The current infrastructure is struggling to serve the smaller Catholic population.

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Detroit Archdiocese Restructures, Closing Churches Amid Declining Attendance

Q: How will the Archdiocese of Detroit's restructuring impact the local community?

The restructuring will result in the closure of some parish churches and a shift to a "pastorate" model, where a single pastor will oversee one or more churches. This is expected to be a significant change for many Catholic communities in the region.

16 Nov

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Summary

Archdiocese to close some churches, reassign priests
Declining Catholic population and participation in sacraments
Restructuring aims to create "vibrant parishes" and support priests

Detroit Archdiocese Restructures, Closing Churches Amid Declining Attendance

In November 2025, the Archdiocese of Detroit announced a two-year restructuring process that will significantly impact the region's Catholic community. According to Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger, the changes are necessary due to a decline in the number of Catholics, participation in sacraments, and the availability of priests.

The Archdiocese, which once served over 1.5 million Catholics, now has a population of around 900,000, with fewer regularly attending Mass. This has left the Archdiocese struggling to maintain its current infrastructure of buildings, ministries, and structures. As a result, the Archdiocese will be closing some parish churches and reassigning priests to a new "pastorate" model, where a single pastor will oversee one or more churches.