November 3, 2005 - Vatican Issues Decision Concerning
The Appeal From
Saint William Parish In Dorchester
(Brighton, MA) The Archdiocese of Boston has announced that the Congregation
for the Clergy has responded to the appeal concerning Saint William Parish
in Dorchester, which was closed in August 2004. Representatives of the
former parish filed the appeal with the Congregation following the closing
of the parish.
Earlier this year, on July 20, 2005, prior to a decision from Rome concerning
the appeal, the Archbishop directed that the remaining assets of Saint
William Parish be given to the welcoming parish, Blessed Mother Teresa
of Calcutta. The Archbishop issued this decree in order to assist Blessed
Mother Teresa parish with a number of unexpected expenses incurred in
their role as the welcoming parish, including expenses related to the
parish school.
The Archdiocese released the following statement:
“The Archdiocese is pleased that the Congregation for the Clergy
has affirmed the process the Archbishop used for reconfiguration in the
Archdiocese of Boston. While there is disagreement over the canons used
as they pertain to the assets of parishes closed under reconfiguration,
in the case of St. William, the Congregation has ruled that the canonical
issues were offset by the Archbishop’s decree allocating St. William’s
remaining assets to Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish.
Archbishop O’Malley continues to understand and appreciate that
reconfiguration has been a difficult process for many who have been impacted
by the parish closings. The Archbishop appreciates the efforts of all
who have transitioned to new parishes, it is his hope that all who were
parishioners at parishes that have been closed will be able to do so.
Many parishes have been enriched and strengthened by their new friends
and neighbors from closed parishes. It continues to be the Archbishop’s
prayer that reconfiguration will lead us all to a more vibrant Archdiocese,
better prepared to meet the future needs of the Catholic community.”
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