At Masses across southeast Michigan this weekend, Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger announced a two-year restructuring and renewal initiative for the Archdiocese of Detroit. The process will involve all parishes in the region.

Archbishop Weisenburger addressed Catholics through a video and a letter distributed to parishioners, inviting broad participation in the upcoming changes. “I believe with all my heart that God is inviting us to reimagine parish life, priestly ministry, and our mission with new creativity and deep faith, to build something that will last—something vibrant, sustainable, and full of hope,” he said. “This is why I’m inviting every Catholic in our Archdiocese to join me in a two-year process of renewal. In the effort before us, every voice matters, just as every prayer matters.”

The restructuring aims to strengthen parish communities, support priests, and prepare the Church for its mission by reviewing priest assignments and administrative structures. The initiative will include listening sessions, data analysis, and consultations with clergy and lay leaders so each parish can develop plans that reflect current demographic trends as well as pastoral and financial needs.

Officials expect that some parishes may merge or close worship sites as part of realigning resources for long-term sustainability. However, specific decisions have not yet been made; these outcomes will be determined through further consultation and discernment.

The discernment phase is set to conclude in 2027 when implementation begins.

Media representatives are invited to attend an information session with Archbishop Weisenburger on Monday at 1:30 p.m., at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Detroit.

The Archdiocese of Detroit covers six counties—Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Lapeer, St. Clair, and Monroe—and serves about 900,000 Catholics across 209 parishes. It has had a Catholic presence since 1701; it became a diocese in 1833 before being elevated to an archdiocese in 1937.

More details about the restructuring initiative are available at restructuring.aod.org.