Tucson, Ariz., Sep 26, 2005 / 22:00 pm
After filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and emerging from it only one year later, Bishop Gerald Kicanas of Tucson says his diocesan church is "purified and humbled, yet more resolved to carry on Christ's work." In addition, the process has taught him many important lessons.
In an interview with the Arizona Daily Star after the bankruptcy case was settled last week, the bishop admitted that giving up all of the diocese's extra property to pay for settlements was a sacrifice, but one the diocese had to make.
"The biggest struggle we are facing now is we are a growing diocese … and bereft of any property to construct new churches," Bishop Kicanas told the Star.
"Any time a mission diocese has to surrender significant assets is a challenge. But it needed to be done, it's appropriate that it be done, and now it will be my responsibility with the people of the diocese to find the assets necessary to continue the work of the Church," he was quoted as saying.