St. Thomas

Question:::Father, why are we now making changes to everything like daily Masses? Can’t we have daily Mass in our own church?
Answer:  : : We are doing this to respond to changes that are happening and to ensure that sacramental life continues in this town. We are living in a day when the number of priests in active ministry is quickly declining. We have seen a population shift in the state where the numbers of Catholics have declined, and those who practice the faith is fewer than ever. We no longer need all the Masses and buildings we once had to meet a need that is not here. In such cases, it is best to reorganize and utilize our remaining resources to serve people as best we can to meet the current circumstances and needs. In just under two years, we will be down to two priests covering the five parishes in Southington. Before the crunch happens, we are responding now to ease into that new reality. While we have been accustomed to having daily Masses at each of the parishes separately, that doesn’t mean we always have to do that. Why should we be heating and cooling five buildings when only a handful of people will be at each? It is a poor use of resources and just bad Stewardship of the Earth. By gathering in one place, we not only better use the utilities, but we create a stronger community. We cannot be five places in competition, but we are called to be one family, One Body in Christ. The changes happening are response to what is already happening and still maintaining Catholic life in our community.