Diocese restructures downtown offices as part of cost-saving measures

Officials for the Diocese of Phoenix announced a major restructuring of departments at its offices in downtown Phoenix last week, resulting in the elimination of 15 positions.

The restructuring of the offices at the Diocesan Pastoral Center, announced on March 9, comes on the heels of a projected 2.5 percent decrease in revenue from the diocese’s parishes. Twelve people were directly affected in the process, and the remaining 90 employees will be required to expand their roles in order to continue to provide services to parishes.

Diocesan officials determined that a restructuring was necessary in order to respond to ongoing economic conditions and to meet the Church’s obligation of providing prudent and responsible management of the funds entrusted to it by the Catholic faithful.

The departments affected by the changes include the Communications Office, the Office of Family Catechesis, and the Human Resources Department. There will be staffing changes in many other offices as well.

In addition to the departmental restructuring, diocesan officials plan to continue certain other cost-reduction measures that were implemented a year ago: a work furlough program, a freeze on salary increases, and restrictions on traveling for diocesan employees.

Employees at the Diocesan Pastoral Center are scheduled to be on furlough leave the week of April 5. The new furlough weeks are scheduled for July, December and next spring.

“The challenging economic times that have impacted our country and state have also had a noticeable impact on the Church. Despite these difficult financial times, parishioners continue to be generous to the Church. Because of that generosity, the work of Christ and His Church continues,” said Fr. Fred Adamson, vicar general and moderator of the Curia.

“Please keep those who have been affected by these changes in your prayers.”