Boston Archdiocese Plans Another Reorganization

The Roman Catholic Boston Archdiocese is planning another major parish reorganization to deal with a continued decline in Mass attendance, reduced financial resources and a shortage of priests.

Church officials say unlike seven years ago when many churches were closed, causing anguish among parishioners, the goal this time is to merge parishes and share more resources.

The Rev. Richard Erikson, vicar general of the archdiocese, tells The Boston Globe that the current system is outdated and unsustainable.

According to the archdiocese, 40 percent of its 291 parishes are expected to finish the 2011 fiscal year in the red.

Cardinal Sean O'Malley has appointed an 18-member panel of parishioners and church employees to revise a draft plan.