Vatican court rules Manitowoc’s St. Boniface church to close permanently

MANITOWOC (WLUK) — After years of discussion, Saint Boniface church in Manitowoc is officially set to close.

In a press release issued Saturday, the Diocese of Green Bay confirmed the church’s Supreme Court in Rome upheld Bishop Ricken’s original decision to close the church.

“Following months of parish planning in 2019-2020, an initial request from St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Manitowoc, was made to the Diocese of Green Bay to no longer use St. Boniface church. After years of discussion on the matter, Bishop Ricken ultimately granted permission for St. Francis of Assisi to close St. Boniface church,” the release reads.

After the Bishop’s decision, an appeal was presented to the Dicastery for the Clergy in 2024. A ruling later affirmed Rickens’ decision.

“A final appeal was then made against this decision to the Apostolic Signatura, which is the Supreme Court of the Catholic Church. We have now heard back from Rome on this final appeal which has affirmed Bishop Ricken’s initial decision on January 15, 2023, to close the Church of Saint Boniface,” the Diocese says.

“Planning for the disposition of the Church, contents, and property is underway. Please continue to pray for the parish and community.”

The release does not indicate an official closing date.