STOCKTON (CA)
Lodi News-Sentinel

By Wes Bowers/News-Sentinel staff writer

The Diocese of Stockton intends to file for bankruptcy Wednesday, after more than six months of discussing the possibility with its members and financial experts.

Bishop Stephen Blaire released a statement Monday afternoon stating the diocese’s financial difficulties can only be resolved for filing for bankruptcy protection.

Blaire said the diocese’s attorneys will file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Wednesday, becoming the 10th in the country to do so.

“This has been a difficult decision,” Blaire said in Monday’s statement. “Nevertheless, I am convinced this step will allow us to achieve two essential goals.”