By Nancy K. Wenger
If you live within a mile or so of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church, you’ve heard them chiming the hour until eight o’clock in the evening. I heard the bells this afternoon and wondered what is going to happen to the lovely melodious chimes, once the parish church closes in late July. Supposedly, one Sunday Mass will continue to be offered until sometime in December. Then, again, the parish school will remain open for the 2023-2024 school year, and some Masses will continue to be offered with the school children in attendance. I guess, during that time, the bells will continue to “sing” and ring out the hour. But, what then?
And, what about those who work within the parish setting? What will happen to the staff and the volunteers who offer their services to the church and the community?
Oh, it’s easy to dismiss my questions, and there are others, with a wave of the hand and say: “It’ll work out. The employees will find jobs, the church building could be re purposed, the kids will find another school, the volunteers who work with food pantries and other services will surely find an outlet for their talents.”
But, what about the church as a landmark and fixture in the Ferguson landscape?
I have lived in Ferguson since 1954. The church, established in 1882, and originally named Sts. John and James, has been my parish since I was ten years old. As a younger adult, I invested much of my time as a Children’s Liturgist, teacher, “Heavenly Duster,” school parent and neighbor. My husband and children and some of my grandchildren are members of this parish. The parish church is one of the things that has kept us in Ferguson.
There are hundreds like me and, yet, we are being asked to pull up our roots and go elsewhere. Why? Because Archbishop Rozanski is telling us to do so.
In the old movie, The Bells of St. Mary, the parish priest, played by Bing Crosby, is faced with the dilemma of tearing down a derelict school building. He spars with the principal, Sister Mary Benedict, played by Ingrid Bergman. Guess what? Everything works out okay…and the film was nominated for several Academy Awards with a win for Bing. It was well-received by the public and grossed a lot of money for Republic Pictures. You can still catch this oldie but goodie around Christmas time on late night TV. Ah, Hollywood!
Alas, I don’t foresee that happy ending. And, it is much to the great sorrow of parishioners and our neighbors alike.
