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It’s getting down to the nitty-gritty when it comes to getting more parishioners in the pews and raise much needed funds in order to keep two churches open in Dot.
According to the Dorchester Reporter, declining attendance at Mass at St. Brendan – St. Ann and decrease in weekly offertories, combined with much needed maintenance to aging building (which is estimated to be over $2 million for both churches) and a debt of $850,000, the parishes are struggling to stay afloat. Back in May, over 300 concerned residents attended a community meeting to discuss the financial difficulties.
Now that summer is over, two events have been planned this week to engage residents and help in the fight to keep both St. Ann and St. Brendan churches open. On Sunday, September 23 a special outdoor Mass will be celebrated at 4pm in Neponset Park (Pope John Paul II Park). There will also be a community meeting at St. Ann Church on Monday, September 24th to discuss finances and a plan of action.
A fundraiser is currently in the planning stages for Saturday, November 24th at Florian Hall for the cause.
But October is considered a very important month. The Archdiocese of Boston uses the month of October to census Mass attendance If there hasn’t been an increase in attendance, it’s going to make the fight that much harder.
Although nothing has been formally announced or proposed to closing churches or schools, it seems as though a miracle is needed to save St. Brendan – St. Ann as it is currently operating.
To learn more, The Dorchester Reporter has an in-depth article here!
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.