Over 300 people attended a community meeting this week to discuss the future of the St. Ann and St. Brendan community. A letter was sent out back in May from the parish priests informing parishioners of financial difficulties.
Due to declining attendance at Mass and decrease in weekly offertories, combined with much needed maintenance to aging building (which is estimated to be roughly $2 million) and a debt of $850,000, the parishes are struggling to stay afloat.
At the meeting, concerned residents signed up to help with writing grants, fundraising and outreach to the community and beyond.
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.
The Dorchester Reporter has a great recap of the meeting.
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.