Earlier today, the Diocese of Camden filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code.
“Dear Sisters and Brothers,
This year has seen historic difficulties in South Jersey, in our country and across the world due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic to which our diocese has not been immune. The loss of life and the fear of sickness from viral exposure have weighed heavily on each of us. These pandemic ripples have taken many forms, among which has been its effect on the finances of our diocese.
The effects of the pandemic, which have curtailed our revenue and deeply impacted our parishioners and neighbors, were further compounded by the over $8 million we have paid out this year through the New Jersey Independent Victims Compensation Program to victims of clergy abuse, money which we have had to borrow. Additionally, the recent repeal of the statute of limitations has resulted in over fifty lawsuits being filed against the diocese involving long-ago claims of abuse. If it were just the pandemic, or just the costs of the Victims Compensation Program, we could likely weather the financial impact; however, the combination of these factors has made that impracticable. Because of this, today I announce that the Diocese of Camden is filing for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code…”
Bishop Sullivan’s full letter to the people of the Diocese, key facts, a FAQ and a link to the full filing (once it is available) can be found at http://www.camdendiocese.org/reorganization.
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