Study: Boston Archdiocese Execs Among Top Paid

A study performed at the request of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston indicates nearly a third of its top executives rank among the highest paid in their field.

The Boston Herald reports the study has prompted church officials to withhold some merit-based raises.

The study looked at how Boston's pay compares to nine similar archdioceses. It found that five of the 16 lay executives making more than $150,000 are paid above the 75th percentile.

Among the highest pay was $360,000 in 2011 for the secretary of education and $340,000 for the general counsel.

Church officials said the goal is to eventually have most top-earners paid around the 50th percentile.

Peter Borre of the Council of Parishes, which opposes church closings, said the salaries are "appalling," especially considering low attendance and the archdiocese's ongoing downsizing.