Today’s entry in the Sacred Sunday series is St. Frances X. Cabrini, a Catholic church which has been held in vigil for 2,448 days thus far.
For my readers from outside the area, a very brief explanation – in 2004, the Archdiocese began the process of shuttering many of its parishes and consolidating the congregations. Some churches which were scheduled to be closed were held open by parishioners, who have maintained 24 hour vigils in the buildings to literally prevent the doors from being shut. St. Frances is one of those holdouts.
Despite their current uncertain future, parishioners have maintained a vibrant community in this church. By the end of the summer, they should have an answer to their appeal to the Vatican… and while they wait, they remain in vigil.
I made all my sacraments here – baptism, first communion, confirmation and marriage. I also went to preschool and CCD in the building next door. I miss it…
Sad that they wouldn’t have control over the fate of their congregation… hope they win against the Vatican.
Went to nursery school, made my communion, confirmation and today sit in vigil for keeping open this beautiful, necessary and once vibrant church.
I am amazed by the faithfulness of the parishioners who have kept vigil all this time… it seems to me a terrible shame that the authorities are not able to recognize this.
I was very saddened to see this article today:
http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/scituate/2011/07/archdiocese_moves_to_sell_st_f.html?camp=misc:on:fb-page:HLscituate&dlvrit=187027
i was christened at st francis and received my first communion, first penance, and confirmation there. thanks for posting this picture – i too was saddened to see the recent news, but i am sure the vigil will go on for now.