Message from the Pastor  

Over the past few weeks, we’ve shared some of the financial challenges our parish faces in the maintenance and upkeep of our facilities. Over the past 20 to 30 years, a number of needed repairs at each of our sites have been deferred indefinitely, largely due to the costs of the projects. Our current five-year maintenance estimate stands at $2.7 million, with the bulk of these costs driven by deferred projects. Last summer, one of these deferred projects reached a critical point: ceiling tiles and support rods fell in the seating area of Mother of Good Counsel Church. Due to safety concerns, we have been unable to continue using MOGC for divine worship. The estimate for repairs for this one project alone is $250,000, which is greater than the balance of our parish checking account.  

We’ve also shared with you a description of the facilities that are available at our three sites and our ability to operate these sites. (Currently, we’re not operating at a deficit, although that’s only due to one-time tax credits that we received last fall.  By the end of the year, these funds will have been depleted, and we anticipate that we’ll be operating at a deficit by the end of 2026.)  

In recent months, we have worked closely with diocesan experts and our own parish councils to evaluate the future of Mother of Good Counsel Church. Regrettably, the cost of the required repairs exceeds our available resources. Due to these financial and safety realities, and having attained the consensus of our parish councils, I am petitioning Bishop Eckman to "relegate the building to profane but not sordid use." This is a difficult decision, as it means the church will be permanently closed and will cease to be a place for sacred liturgy. 

Please be assured that this decision was not reached lightly. It is the result of careful study, prayerful discernment, and a commitment to the long-term well-being of our entire parish family. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to honoring the rich heritage and traditions of Mother of Good Counsel. We are actively seeking meaningful ways to carry that legacy forward while continuing to serve every member of our parish community. 

Please join me on April 21 at 6 p.m. in the chapel at St James Church in Wilkinsburg, at which time we will share the next steps for our parish community.  

St Mary Magdalene, pray for us! Mary, Mother of Good Counsel, pray for us!  

Blessings,  

Fr Larry