Archbishop's home on the market
The Catholic Archdiocese of Atlanta has officially put a for sale sign in front of Archbishop Wilton Gregory's former Buckhead mansion, listing the 6,300-square-foot home for $2.85 million.
Back in March, AJC staff writer Mark Davis sparked an international controversy when he reported that the archdiocese had used a bequest from the nephew of 'Gone with the Wind' writer Margaret Mitchell to purchase and refurbish the property for Gregory's use. (Read the story here.) Some Catholic parishioners believed the $2.2 million spent on the home was lavish and an affront to Pope Francis, who electrified the world's Catholics when he eschewed the official papal quarters at the Vatican and pledged a life of simplicity.
Gregory apologized for the lapse in judgement and agreed to sell his residence on Habersham Road after consulting with other priests and local advisers to the diocese. (Read about his apology here.) He now lives in Smyrna.
The Georgia Bulletin, which reported the listing last week, quoted an official involved with selecting the real estate broker for the sale as saying it could take up to 18 months to find a buyer.
About the Author
Ken Foskett has been an AJC reporter and editor since 1989 and is Senior Editor/Investigations, leading a team of investigative and data journalists who watchdog state and local government. Additionally, Foskett manages the AJC's year-round internship program for collegiate journalists.
