Bishop Edward M. Lohse

STEUBENVILLE — Bishop Edward M. Lohse, apostolic administrator of Steubenville, has published an executive summary of his report regarding the state of the Catholic Diocese of Steubenville. This report is likely to contribute toward an eventual decision on the future of the diocese.

It does not contain the decision itself. In fact, a decision has yet to be made, Lohse explained.

Since his appointment as apostolic administrator June 14, Lohse has worked with diocesan consultors, members of the diocesan finance council, diocesan administrators and the priests of the diocese to complete a self-study of the state of the diocese.

“The most significant issue facing the Diocese of Steubenville in the next five to 10 years, and beyond, is the projected decrease in both the general population and the Catholic population, with no reversal of this trend in sight,” Lohse explained

The bishop said the diocese is left with two important questions: “Is merging or remaining free-standing the better way to provide for things needed so that the faith can flourish? And, if indications point to the likelihood that there is no long-term viability, then is it better to merge now while the diocese is still viable or to do so only after the diocese is no longer viable?”