Church is being sacrificed

Dear Editor,

I recently wrote a letter to Bishop Barres regarding the closing of St. Katharine Drexel Parish. This was written with the hopes that the diocese would reconsider the decision in order to meet the spiritual needs of the flock - also to take into consideration the historical value of such a magnificent structure. Apparently, those arguments meant nothing to the decision makers, and the closure is imminent.

The response I received from the diocese shows it is very clear that nonfinancial factors were not placed into consideration.It certainly solidifies the fact that our spiritual lives do not appear to be of ultimate importance, and I am concerned that many aging parishioners will be denied the comfort of spiritual support.

I do have questions about the cost of demolition versus the cost of repair of the buildings. What will happen to the school? Could it be converted into senior apartments, which we are desperately in need of? Most importantly, how are the spiritual needs of homebound, elders, parishioners who have no cars, etc. going to be met? At a time of life when we need the comfort of the liturgy, it is being ripped from those of us who depend on it.

How sad for the people, but more so for the decision makers who have abandoned the needy of Carbon County. I am writing this with a heavy heart, and have no desire to be vindictive in any way. We need Christ in our lives - and again he is being sacrificed for "30 pieces of silver."

Sadly,

Rita Klekamp

Lansford