The Vatican overturned Archbishop Hundt's decision to close Holy Rosary Parish for the second time in 15 months. The dispute between parishioners and the archbishop has been ongoing for three years. The archdiocese initially planned to sell Holy Rosary Church due to bankruptcy and compensation for abuse victims. Parishioners protested and attempted to purchase the church, but the archbishop still intended to close the parish. The Vatican ruled that the archdiocese did not follow proper canonical procedure in the decision.
4 months ago
The Vatican's Dicastery for the Clergy has, for the second time in 15 months, overturned Archbishop Peter Hundt's decision to close Holy Rosary Parish in Portugal Cove-St. Philips, Newfoundland 1. This ruling continues a three-year dispute between the parishioners and the Archdiocese of St. John's, which began when the archdiocese announced plans to sell 18 of its 34 parish properties 1. The sales were initiated amidst an ongoing bankruptcy filing and a court order to compensate victims of sexual abuse 1.
The Vatican's first ruling in February 2024 determined that the archdiocese did not follow proper canonical procedure and lacked the right to sell Holy Rosary Parish property 1. This was based on Canon 515 §3, which states that a legitimately erected parish possesses juridic personality, meaning its property is under the administration of the parish itself 1. This legal structure, common in Canada where dioceses often own parish property, is at odds with canon law 1.
Following the initial reversal, Archbishop Hundt issued a second decree to merge Holy Rosary with Holy Trinity parish 1. However, the Vatican's most recent ruling on June 7, 2025, again revoked this decision, stating that the archdiocese failed to provide a "just cause" for closure based on the parish's present reality, once more citing Canon 515 1.
Despite the Vatican's rulings, parishioners, led by Ed Martin, report being locked out of their church for over two and a half years 1. They express frustration, feeling misled by the archbishop who allegedly implied the parish could remain open if they purchased the building 1. The closure has led to a decline in Mass attendance, with some long-time parishioners and younger individuals ceasing to attend church 1.
The archdiocese confirmed receipt of the latest decree and is currently seeking legal counsel on how to proceed 1. Meanwhile, the local community of 14,000 is experiencing growth due to an influx of Catholic immigrants from South Asia, the Philippines, and Africa, highlighting a potential need for active parishes 1.
This case sets a precedent that may affect other Canadian dioceses 1. Many are structured similarly, with the diocese owning parish property, which could lead to similar legal hurdles if they attempt to consolidate parishes or sell assets while facing financial difficulties 1. Parishioners remain hopeful that they will eventually be able to return to their church 1.
What is the Church's authority on parish closure?
The Church's authority regarding parish closure is rooted in canon law, which outlines the procedures and considerations for such decisions. The diocesan bishop holds the primary authority in this matter, acting as the pastor of the particular church entrusted to him.
A parish, as a specific community of the Christian faithful, is established in a stable manner within a particular church, and its pastoral care is entrusted to a pastor under the authority of the diocesan bishop. The bishop has the right to erect, suppress, or alter parishes, but this must be done only after consulting the presbyteral council.
Parish closures are typically considered when there are significant reasons, such as a severe shortage of clergy, a decrease in the number of parishioners, or financial difficulties that make the parish unsustainable. The Code of Canon Law emphasizes that the bishop should consider the spiritual well-being of the faithful and the effective allocation of resources when making such decisions.
Before a parish can be suppressed or altered, the diocesan bishop must consult the presbyteral council. This consultation ensures that the decision is made with due consideration for the needs of the diocese and the input of the clergy. The faithful also have the right to express their needs and desires to their sacred pastors regarding matters that pertain to the good of the Church. While the ultimate decision rests with the bishop, the process often involves a period of discernment, consultation with the affected communities, and efforts to mitigate the impact on parishioners.
Those who feel aggrieved by a decree of parish suppression or alteration may have the right to appeal the decision to the Holy See, specifically to the Congregation for the Clergy. This provides a mechanism for review and ensures that canonical procedures have been followed and that justice is served.
In summary, the Church's authority on parish closure is exercised by the diocesan bishop, guided by canon law, with a focus on the spiritual good of the faithful and the effective administration of diocesan resources, and involving consultation with the presbyteral council.