Permanent supply priests not a solution for parishes

Friday, July 17th, 2015

The Clergy Trust Fund (CTF) in the Archdiocese of Wellington has become concerned that the challenge to review the Mass times and number of Masses, in line with the number of priests appointed to a parish, is being disregarded by some parishes.

Those parishes have organised supply priests, priests who are not in parochial ministry, to be available to celebrate the Eucharist in a parish on a regular basis.

The stipend for these supply priests is expected to be provided by the CTF.

The CTF says the policy of funding supply priests applies only when a legitimate reason exists such as when priests take annual leave, go on sabbatical, make a retreat, or attends course.

They say, “On 31 October 2013, a document titled ‘A future full of hope – reimagining the future of the Archdiocese of Wellington’ was promulgated.”

“In announcing that some parishes would amalgamate to become a new parish led by a pastoral team, there is an expectation that the team will make provision for Masses, taking into account the number of priests appointed to the new parish.”

“The CTF has become concerned that the challenge to review the Mass times and number of Masses, in line with the number of priests appointed to a parish, is being disregarded and avoided by those parishes which have organised permanent Mass supplies, expecting them to be paid by the CTF.”

“This reduces the number of priests available for supply when emergencies arise, as well as making an unreasonable call on the CTF, and being counter to the spirit of ‘re-imagining the future of the Archdiocese'”.

The Archbishop of Wellington Cardinal, John Dew, has asked that the policy suggested by the CTF be implemented as soon as practicable, and at the latest by 1 February 2016.