Dear Arch Bishop Sean O'Malley,
As you are more than aware, the recent Archdiocese's
decision to close
many
careful thought and consideration for what is important not only for the
present and near future; but more importantly, for the more distant
future. I hope the following thoughts were known to the decision makers
and considered. If not, please do consider what I share below in the
context of all other privileged information you may have.
I believe that Sacred Heart provides a place of community and prayer
that is unique to the area. More than 100 of the 1200 families that are
a part of this parish travel from outside
unusual community. When directly comparing a nearby catholic parish to
Sacred Heart, it is apparent that the two parishes fill a similar role
in very different ways to meet different expectations for their
respective parishioners. As a mother of a family with two children, a
few years ago I evaluated my choices in my community for houses of
worship. My vision for a church for myself and my children meshes
nicely with Sacred Heart. This shared vision should not be taken
lightly and provides a path for one more family to
worship God.
Eliminating this unique path for myself, and most likely others, should
be avoided at almost any cost.
I deeply worry that the church is being short sighted and somewhat
reactionary. Knowing what has been told to the laypeople, I do not
believe the current state of affairs should force the closing of a
vibrant and needed parish that offers a community spirit different from
anything I have witnessed other than at Boston College as an
undergraduate.
Please do not be short sighted, closing churches can eliminate followers
that need a bit smaller church, a bit of a different church. I pray
that the Archdiocese's state of affairs do not preclude keeping small,
unique, vibrant churches open.
Please consider my thoughts.
Parishioner of Sacred Heart of