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

The Archdiocese of Louisville has announced the closure of Immaculate Heart of Mary parish, effective December 31, 2025. The decree states that the parish will be suppressed and its territory will be transferred to St. Martin de Porres.

According to the announcement, this decision follows consultation with all parties who have a right to be heard and with the Priest Council on August 25, 2025. The main reasons cited include a decline in both the Catholic population and parish registrations in the area. The statement notes that “the number of parishioners does not allow for the care of the church facility and property, which has fallen into disrepair.” Parish leadership also requested that Immaculate Heart of Mary be suppressed and its territory reassigned.

The Archdiocese explained that reducing the number of parishes in close proximity is intended to help remaining parishes grow in size and vitality. This move is expected to eliminate duplication of programs and services within a small geographic area, leading to more efficient resource allocation.

Additionally, due to fewer available priests, assigning clergy to larger combined communities is seen as necessary for maintaining pastoral care throughout the archdiocese.

"Given at Louisville, Kentucky, the 24th day of November, 2025."