Rightsize and Reshape Documentation

The following documents have been prepared to assist parishes in navigating the process of merging and closing parish and worship sites. They provide essential guidelines and practical steps to ensure a smooth transition during these changes. Our goal is to support parishes through this period of adjustment, helping to preserve the spiritual and community values that have been integral to their mission while adapting to the evolving needs of the faith community. 
  1. Pillar Revamped Summary (update Oct. 2024)
  2. Guide for Parish Mergers/Closures
  3. Lease Guidelines
  4. Parish Appeal Guidelines
  5. Financial and Budget Guidelines
  6. Asset Guidance Scenarios
  7. Merger Date Guidelines
  8. New Wine, New Wineskins Flyer
  9. Secondary Worship Site Definition  
  10. Editable Welcome Card PDF 

Latest video update from Fr. Bryan on the Renewal. If you have questions or concerns you are welcome to reach out to the renewal team at renewal@buffalodiocese.org 

Training Documentation

  1. Transition Team Training 

Guide for Parish Mergers & Closures

The following resources are just informational tools to help accomplish a difficult and complex task. While it contains policies and procedures the Diocese expects each parish to follow, there is some room for individualizing the implementation of exactly how they are carried out. For the full document please click here.