Santa Rosa Diocese selling more real estate as it seeks bankruptcy amid abuse claims

February 5, 2026 - 05:33

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Santa Rosa is expanding its sale of real estate assets across Northern California as it navigates Chapter 11 bankruptcy, a move driven by the financial burden of hundreds of sexual abuse claims. The diocese has identified several new properties to be sold, including parcels in Napa, Sonoma, and Humboldt counties.

This latest action follows the recent sale of two unused church sites and signals the ongoing effort to generate funds for a compensation plan for survivors. The bankruptcy filing, initiated in March 2023, was a direct response to over 400 allegations of childhood sexual abuse brought under a California law that temporarily suspended the statute of limitations for such cases.

Diocesan officials state that all proceeds from the property sales are intended to contribute to a settlement trust for survivors, while ensuring the continued operation of its remaining parishes and ministries. The list of assets now on the market includes undeveloped land, former retreat spaces, and other non-essential holdings. The diocese maintains that selling these properties is a necessary step toward resolving the bankruptcy and providing restitution, emphasizing its commitment to a fair and equitable outcome for all parties involved in the proceedings.