Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

The Archdiocese of Louisville has introduced a new administrative structure, organizing its parishes into eight groupings called deaneries. This model replaces the previous system that divided parishes into 11 regions.

“Most of the parishes are not going to notice any real change,” stated Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre in a recent interview. He emphasized that the new model is designed to maintain collaboration between parishes and does not hinder coordination with those outside a deanery.

Each deanery will be overseen by a dean, who is a priest serving within that area. These deans are appointed by the archbishop to act as his representatives in their respective territories. “The deans have authority in those deaneries,” explained Archbishop Fabre, noting that they can address certain questions or pastoral matters independently.

Archbishop Fabre highlighted that this approach aligns with the principle of subsidiarity, where issues are addressed at the most local level possible.

Father Paul Beach, judicial vicar and director of the Metropolitan Tribunal for the archdiocese, believes this new arrangement will strengthen local churches. He pointed out that different areas face unique challenges; for instance, “The issues facing the southern Kentucky missions are different from the issues for parishes in west Louisville, east Louisville or the Bardstown area.”

The decision to adopt this model stems from limitations observed in the previous regional system which lacked consistency across regions. In contrast, Father Beach noted that “the deanery approach is rooted in canon law” and provides clearly defined roles and responsibilities for deans.

Deans will hold regular meetings with priests within their deaneries and manage tasks such as auditing sacramental records and church properties. They will also coordinate pastoral services and liturgical activities like Advent or Lenten penance services.

Additionally, deans will promote fraternity among priests and ensure adequate living arrangements for them. The eight appointed deans will serve as a consultative body to assist Archbishop Fabre alongside existing clergy and laity advisory groups.

Maps detailing each deanery along with lists of associated parishes have been provided by the archdiocese.