The Catholic Diocese of Santa Rosa is selling properties as it tries to manage a severe budget shortfall while in Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Per the Press Democrat, the diocese has received court approval to sell two small, closed churches—one near Cloverdale and one in Hopland—to help address its financial crisis. Bishop Robert F. Vasa confirmed more sales are underway, stating that operating costs are rapidly depleting the diocese’s cash reserves.
The bankruptcy was filed after over 260 sexual abuse claims were brought against the diocese. Additionally, a creditors’ committee is challenging over $760,000 in transfers made by the diocese before the bankruptcy filing, claiming they were “fraudulent.”
The diocese denies this, stating the money was for charitable collections.