U.S. Bankruptcy Court Approves Final Decree for Diocese of Syracuse to Emerge from Chapter 11

SYRACUSE, NY (February 25, 2026) – The Honorable Wendy Kinsella, Chief U.S. Bankruptcy Judge for the Northern District of New York, has approved the Final Decree closing the Chapter 11 reorganization case for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse. This ruling marks the official conclusion of a process that began on June 19, 2020, aimed at providing reparation and compensation to survivors of sexual abuse.

As part of the court-approved plan, a total of $176.1 million will be awarded to survivors through an independent arbiter. This Victims’ Trust Fund is comprised of:

• $76.1 million provided by the Diocese’s insurance carriers.
• $100 million contributed from the "Catholic family," including $45 million from parishes, $5 million from other diocesan entities, and $50 million from the Diocese itself via investments and loans.

The reorganization plan utilizes a "channeling injunction" to ensure all claims against the Diocese, its parishes, and other entities are resolved through the shared trust fund. This approach provides a unified path toward reparation rather than individual legal actions. Additionally, the plan formalizes the Diocese’s commitment to rigorous Safe Environment policies and protection protocols designed to prevent future abuse. To date, the Diocese of Syracuse has trained and criminally background checked 52,000 individuals to ensure the safety of all who interact with he diocese and its ministries. 

"Words cannot adequately express my feelings and sorrow regarding such heinous behavior," stated Bishop Douglas J. Lucia. "I again offer my most heartfelt apology to those who have suffered such harm and for any past neglect in addressing it".

Bishop Lucia acknowledged the "significant burden" the lengthy process placed on those who filed claims and expressed gratitude to all those involved in reaching this conclusion- the survivors who were members of the Creditors Committee, diocesan staff, parishes and other members of the Catholic family. 

About the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse serves the Catholic faithful across seven counties in Central and South Central New York. Under the leadership of Bishop Douglas J. Lucia, the Diocese is committed to healing, reparation, and the continued implementation of rigorous protection protocols for all members of its community.

For more information, contact Danielle E. Cummings, Chancellor/Director of Communications, 315.470.1476.