The Boston Globe is reporting that the current Chancellor for the Archdiocese of Boston James P. McDonough has decided to step down after six years on the job. Complimenting McDonough for getting the finances of the archdiocese on a sound footing, Cardinal Sean O’Malley announced that he has chosen John E. Straub to fill the role of interim chancellor. Straub currently serves as executive director of finance and operations for central ministries with the Archdiocese. Straub had previously directed the White House’s Office of Administration during the George W. Bush administration.

The timing of McDonough’s leaving coincides with recently released annual financial report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2011. The January 26 report was accompanied by this statement from the Cardinal:

 “The Archdiocese of Boston has greatly benefitted by the financial management of recent years that has achieved and sustained a balanced budget. The stabilization of our finances has led to increased confidence among our many generous benefactors, who provide us the means to invest in our parishes, schools, evangelization and the important mission of serving the poor and those in need. We are aware that there remain challenges to be addressed, but are encouraged by the progress being made in rebuilding our local Church. Going forward, we will maintain our commitment to be a sign of the presence of the Lord to the Catholics of the Archdiocese and the wider community.”

Among the highlights of the report:

• Central ministries, a component of central operations, achieved a balanced budget maintained for second straight year;
• Parish offertory increased 3 percent;
• Enrollment grew in over half of the Archdiocese’s Catholic schools and increased by 1 percent in Boston for the first time in 20 years.

Read the full financial report by linking here to The Pilot. The Globe story can be read here at boston.com.