6 Mar 2018

Guam Catholic church seeks solutions as congregation declines

10:24 am on 6 March 2018

The Archdiocese of Guam is seeking solutions to turn around a reported decline in its congregation.

Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral Basilica in Guam

Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral Basilica in Guam Photo: 123rf

According to the Guam Daily Post the Archbishop Michael Byrnes raised concern about fewer Catholic baptisms, weddings and school enrolments in the territory in recent years.

Less than half of Guam's population is registered as Catholic.

A survey is being circulated in the territory calling for input from the congregation and the clergy on the future of the church which is facing more than 150 lawsuits on historical sexual abuse.

The survey acknowledges the current stituation but emphasises work being done to right past wrongs and bring about reform in the church.

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