Archdiocese of San Francisco Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection

The Archdiocese of San Francisco filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization Monday. The filing follows more than 500 civil lawsuits brought under state law AB-218, which allowed individuals to file claims for childhood sexual abuse that had previously been barred by the statute of limitations. The law was passed in 2019.

"Today, I am informing you that after much reflection, prayer, and consultation with our financial and legal advisors, the Archdiocese of San Francisco filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization," a letter from the archbishop stated. The letter said the reorganization stems in large part from the lawsuits filed under AB-218.

The letter said the diocese's parishes, schools, and other entities are not included in the filing and their operation should not be affected. The archdiocese had previously sold excess property and used insurance to pay about $68 million to about 100 plaintiffs to settle claims filed under a 2002 state law.

The archbishop had previously announced that a Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization was "very likely" in a letter published earlier this month. The Archdiocese of San Francisco joins other dioceses in the Bay Area and across California and the United States that have filed for bankruptcy protection, including the dioceses of Oakland and Santa Rosa earlier this year.

"I remain committed to the healing and care of survivors who have suffered irreversible harm because of the sins of the Church's ministers and ask you to join me in praying for our Archdiocese, parish communities, schools, and all survivors of sexual abuse," the letter said.

A lawyer representing alleged victims of childhood sexual abuse within the church said the decision to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy is dangerous and demonstrates a priority on secrecy and self-protection.