parish closings

The Field Hospital: Chicago pastor removed for burning a rainbow flag; Erie Diocese transfers property; New Zealand lay leaders seen as model for Ireland; importance of music at Mass.

The Field Hospital: The congregation at Our Lady of the Rosary in Detroit has always been small, but parishioners say that attendance at Sunday Mass is about a third of what it used to be. Some say the reason is that the parish is now an oratory and Fr. Daniel Jones pastor.

The Field Hospital: Illinois dioceses plan school and parish closings; flu affects Eucharist, sign of peace; connecting with young adults in Pittsburgh; 20 years of perpetual adoration.

Just Catholic: Too much in life is a race to the finish. The same is happening in the church. Diocesan bureaucracy often moves too fast, without checking the options.

The Field Hospital: Our church's closing was announced in April by way of the church bulletin. A pall came over the congregation. After the final blessing, the pastor said he was sorry. 

The Field Hospital: Indiana diocese takes part in pope-inspired effort to welcome refugees; Brooklyn bishop celebrates Mass for victims of Mexican earthquakes; Padre Pio relics in Utica, Chicago

Simply Spirit: Too many bishops have adopted a corporate mentality that views parish communities as so many commercial franchises to be managed, rather than the living body of Christ. 

The Field Hospital: Refugees welcomed in Toledo and St. Paul; religious sister presides at a wedding; Raleigh closes its overflowing cathedral; tragedy ends carnival rides.