Letter from the Parish Priests, Parish Pastoral Council, and Finance Committee
Dear Parishioners and Friends of Newry,
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share their views and concerns following the launch of our recent Parish Renewal Campaign. Whether supportive, sceptical, or somewhere in between. your honesty matters. We appreciate your willingness to engage, and we are listening.
This campaign is about more than financial stability. It’s about reconnecting with one another, reimagining what our parish can be, and working together to create a place that is open, supportive, and spiritually alive.
Why support the Church today?
Because for many, the Church is still where life’s most profound moments unfold—birth, loss, love, forgiveness, and community.
Because even now, the Church is there quietly serving, praying, supporting
- Responding to sick calls
- Attending the dying in the middle of the night
- Offering comfort in times of sudden tragedy
- Supporting people through moments of crisis
Our Church continues to be a vital spiritual and pastoral presence in Newry.
The financial situation – how did we get here?
We know many have asked how the parish ended up with nearly £1.4 million in debt. The answer is straightforward:
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the Church was closed for a full year, with no income.Since reopening, Mass attendance has dropped by nearly 50%.Contributions from parishioners have understandably fallen as a result.Meanwhile, operational costs have risen sharply due to inflation and higher energy prices.This combination has placed the parish under serious financial strain.
How can you help?
There are many ways to get involved—whether by giving regularly, offering your time or skills, or simply helping us think differently about how our parish can thrive.
If you want to be part of creating a more vibrant and welcoming parish, we would love to hear from you.
This is about renewal not just of finances or buildings, but of trust, belonging, and faith in action.
With gratitude,
Canon Francis Brown, the Parish Pastoral Council & Finance Committee
If you received a leaflet at Mass, we’d be grateful if you could take a moment to complete and return it.
If you’ve misplaced it you can also set up a standing order or explore ways to support the parish by clicking here. To offer your time, skills, or ideas, please contact: parishoffice@newrycathedralparish.org
Newry Cathedral Parish – Your Questions Answered
Q: Why are we being asked to support the Church now?
Because the Church remains an important part of many people’s lives—especially during significant moments like baptisms, funerals, weddings, and times of crisis. But keeping our churches open and our services running requires ongoing support. This campaign is about renewing our parish – spiritually, practically, and as a community.
Q: Isn’t the Catholic Church wealthy? Why not get help from the Vatican?
It’s a common misconception. While the wider Church holds historical and charitable assets, each parish is financially independent. Newry Cathedral Parish receives no funding from the Vatican or Diocese. Every pound needed to pay for electricity, insurance, staffing, and upkeep must come from the local community.
Q: Where does the money go?
Please see the chart and table below.
We welcome ideas on where savings might be made.
Q: What is being done to reduce costs?
We’ve already taken steps, including reducing heating hours, limiting repairs, simplifying communications like the parish bulletin, and reviewing supplier contracts.
However, our current financial situation remains serious. If the deficit continues, we may have to consider more difficult options—such as closing one of our churches and potentially disposing of the land to ensure the long-term sustainability of the parish.
We hope to avoid this but this is only possible with the right support. We welcome your ideas and practical support as we work together to manage our resources more efficiently.
Q: How can I help if I can’t give financially?
There are many ways to be involved. You could volunteer, help with cleaning or gardening, welcome people at Mass, support events, or simply encourage others to reconnect. Every contribution—big or small—makes a difference.