Chicago's new archbishop says he will not reconsider his predecessor's decision to close nine Catholic schools.
Archbishop Blase Cupich said Sunday that the archdiocese instead must move forward to strengthen its schools.
The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Cupich spoke after celebrating Mass at St. Hyacinth Basilica, whose school is among those that will close despite a campaign by students, parents and educators to reverse the decision.
Former Cardinal Francis George announced in October that nine schools would close because of rising costs and declining enrollment. Cupich was installed as archbishop when George retired in November.
Cupich says he was assured that all affected children could attend another Catholic school.
He also says that George deliberated on and made the decision "over a long period of time."
