NEW ORLEANS (LA)
WDSU [New Orleans LA]
November 18, 2025
By Aubry Killion
The Archdiocese of New Orleans’ bankruptcy trial officially began Tuesday, and attorneys began discussing the archdiocese’s finances.
Nearly 150 parishes and charities are filing for bankruptcy and will contribute approximately $65 million to a $230 million settlement fund for clergy sex abuse survivors.
Father Patrick Carr, who works on finances for the diocese, was questioned by attorneys in court.
He said the $230 million trust is still building up the needed funds.
It was revealed in court that it costs the diocese $50 million to operate every three months.
Carr said it’s unclear how much each parish will owe.
“Nobody knows exactly how much the parish is putting up,” Carr said.
Carr said it’s also unclear who will make the decision on how much each parish will pay.
Carr, who is also the pastor of St. Rita, said he doesn’t know how much St. Rita will pay but should find out before the end of the year.
According to Carr, St. Rita’s currently has $250,000 in its operating account. He said as of now, he does not expect parishes to have to sell properties, but did acknowledge that it could be a possibility.
The bankruptcy trial is expected to end by Dec. 4.
Payments from the settlement are expected to be issued to abuse survivors in the new year.
askillion@hearst.com