JPII Center board considers
reworking financial situation
Robert Delaney of The Michigan Catholic
Published March 24, 2006
Detroit – The board of directors of the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center in Washington, D.C., considered how best to restructure its finances and energize fundraising at its March 16 meeting.
"While no formal strategies or changes were adopted at this time, the board supports the efforts to move the Cultural Center forward in its goal of bringing the richness of the Church's intellectual and artistic heritage to bear upon the great issues facing contemporary American society," said Cardinal Adam Maida after the meeting.
The cardinal was the driving force behind the creation of the combination museum and scholarly institute dedicated to the themes of the late pontiff's papacy. He continues to chair its board.
"I was encouraged by the frank and creative suggestions that came forward during the meeting," Cardinal Maida said.
The center's board is wrestling with ways to increase attendance and improve finances at the center, situated by the campus of Catholic University of America, about a half-mile from the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
"We have a highly talented and dedicated group of clergy, religious, and lay professionals on the board. I welcome their voices and their expertise, especially as we deal with the challenges and opportunities before us," the cardinal added.
Although some recent newspaper stories have aired concerns that the center might be headed toward default on its financing, Cardinal Maida says he believes the value of the land and building are more than enough to cover outstanding loans.
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