Salford Diocese announces closure of 22 churches in Manchester

The Salford Diocese has announced that 22 Catholic churches across Manchester are set to close as part of its reorganization plan.

Three of the 22 churches that are slated to be closed are currently not in use, according to Manchester Evening News.

Some of the churches listed for closure include Saint Matthew in Eccles, Saint Antony of Padua in Trafford Park, Saint Mary in Oldham, Our Lady and St Paul in Heywood, Saint Veronica in Helmshore and Saint Philip the Apostle in Padiham.

Under the proposal, 100 parishes are set to be amalgamated and dozens of others have been informed that they may be considered for amalgamation in the future. Over 2,000 people responded to the consultation, with overwhelmingly positive feedback, according to the church leaders.

The Bishop of Salford, Rt. Rev. John Arnold, denied that the closures were due to the lack of priests. The diocese stated that the planned changes are aimed at giving priests more time to perform their pastoral duties, including the celebration of Mass, ministering to the sick and elderly, and working with young people in schools and colleges.

"This plan is a real chance to make changes that will help build, sustain and grow parishes fit for future generations. Not just for members of our church but also for the wider community we live in," said Arnold.

"The plan allows the Diocese of Salford to look forward, creating outward facing parishes, responding to the call from Pope Francis to develop 'missionary parishes'. The Catholic Church plays an essential role in delivering key services across the world and we have some excellent examples of local projects and groups here in Salford," he continued.

According to the FAQ published on Independent Catholic News, the amalgamation and closures will not happen all at once but over the coming months and years.

The Diocese noted that it has no intention to dispose of the church buildings that are set for closure unless it becomes necessary to do so. It also mentioned that the buildings that are in poor condition may be considered for demolition only as a final resort.

The areas covered by the Diocese of Salford include much of Greater Manchester north of the Mersey and Lancashire round Accrington, Blackburn, Burnley and Longridge, and the parish of Dunsop Bridge.