Answers. The best way to describe what we want, what we are searching for, is answers.
When the initial discussions around 'reconfiguration' started, it was never even thought of, that OUR parish, the parish of St. Albert The Great would even be considered for closing.
We have a vibrant and loving parish providing spiritual support to all. We have programs welcoming all members of our neighborhood, not just catholic people but EVERYONE. We are a model for parishes to mimic and study because of our faithfilled message presented in all facets of parish life. From our girl’s color guard to boy’s ice hockey to our three girl’s softball teams to our trips to nowhere to our ‘Family Feud’ night, ‘Lip-Sinc’ contests and comedy nights to our book club. From our outreach programs of AA meetings, the St. Vincent DePaul Society or the Voice of The Faithful to our adult education programs with Fr. Lenny Tighe, children’s religious education programs with John Hammel and all the volunteers that go along with all these programs, the message is always love and caring.
In the guidelines for reconfiguration, “The Reasons for and the Process of Reconfiguration”, as outlined on the Archdiocese of Boston web page, (
"Reasons for reconfiguration"), it was stated consideration should be given for: demographic shifts in population, a decline in the number of priests, financial challenges and the deteriorating condition of Archdiocesan properties. Using these as guidelines for consideration for closure, you must see that St Albert’s is healthy in all aspects.
As the city of Weymouth experiences an increase shift in population, more and more people are making Weymouth their home. It seems to follow that many of these people moving to Weymouth are catholic and will be looking for a parish to become a part of. St. Albert’s has experienced significant growth in the past several years and is looking forward to continued growth with two large housing developments opening in the immediate area in the next few months. The other four parishes in the area will not be able to accommodate the influx of people as well as the parishioners from St Albert’s.
As for the declining number of priests, closing St Albert’s would gain only one priest and the lose of that one priest, Father Ron Coyne, would be devastating to the some 1500 parishioners who look forward to his uplifting words in his weekly homilies. Father Coyne has rejuvenated many people beginning to question their faith. He speaks words of encouragement and lets us know that searching for answers often begins by asking the right questions.
Financially, St. Alberts is debt free and actually has a healthy bank account.
Physically, St. Albert the Great Parish is in excellent condition. A little over three years ago, the sanctuary windows were replaced with beautiful hand made stained glass windows, through the incredible generosity of the parishioners, in the memories of loved ones. The foyer was rebuilt, the carpets were replaced and the entire sanctuary was painted.
Again, the only question we really want answered is WHY?
Read
our civil complaint as it was presented to the court for consideration. The case is ongoing, with the legal teams positioning themselves for additional continuences and anticipates a long process. This is all part of the 'roller coaster ride' that we've been talking about.
Read
Hierarchical Recourse Against Decree Of Suppression and Confiscation as presented to The Vatican for reversal of the decree from Archbishop O'Malley. As stated in the recourse, canon law not only allows for us to file for reconsideration with The Vatican and the Congregation for the Clergy but encourages it.
For our
Canon appeal as presented to The Vatican, please read this.