The last May Crowning...

Our parish had their final May Crowning today. We watched with heavy hearts. The entire mass was pretty sad, even the music minister "lost it" during a song. We have one week left, then the Church closes.

The first communicants prepare for the crowning.

The priest gives a few words.

In such a beautiful time of year, it's difficult not to feel anger, sadness and frustration. This church is the cornerstone of our community. Next Sunday, we will celebrate our final mass as a parish. Then our parish closes, forever. Our priests have announced their new assignments. The nuns who live in the convent are forced to go to the newly merged parish... most seem unhappy. The community is torn. Many of our friends are moving to other parishes, as are we. It just isn't fair.