The first phase toward reconfiguration of the Archdiocese has ended. Archbishop Sean P. O'Malley, O.F.M. Cap. extends his gratitude for all the time, effort and emotion expended in this initial phase. As you know, Archbishop Sean directed that every cluster of parishes gather with representatives from each parish to assist him in determining the best of our resources and personnel for the future mission of the Archdiocese of Boston. Each cluster was asked to recommend to the Archbishop which parish and also which two or more parishes, could close if he felt it was necessary. This was an invitation and opportunity for the faithful of the Archdiocese to participate actively in a very difficult task. At this time, it is important to remember these are recommendations, not final decisions. No one found the process easy, but our cluster accepted the call of the Archbishop to help our Church. The committee members deserve our respect and appreciation for the work they did. Our cluster recommendations are the following:

1. Should the Archbishop find it necessary to close one parish in our cluster, we recommend that Star of the Sea Parish be closed because:
1. Low sacramental index
2. No off street parking that could accommodate parishioners from another church
3. Does not have a school
4. Sunday Mass attendance is 396
5. No Ethnic ministry
6. Not handicapped accessible
7. Not air conditioned
There is a concern for the elderly who walk to Star of the Sea Church.

2. Should the Archbishop find it necessary to close more than one parish in our cluster, we recommend Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish and Saint John Parish. Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish be closed because:
1. One parish on the peninsula can accommodate the Catholic community
2. Most Blessed Sacrament Parish has a larger church, ancillary buildings, and better parking
3. It does not have a school
There is a concern for the parishioners of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, who have recently undergone a merger.

Saint John Parish be closed because:
1. The greater need of physical repairs
2. The Parishes of Saint Mary, Saint Joseph and Saint Ann are able to serve the parishioners of Saint John Parish
3. It does not have a school

The consultation process now continues. First, our recommendations are sent to the Vicar, who forwards our recommendation along with his own recommendation to the Regional Bishop. The bishop forwards all that material and his recommendations to the Central Committee. After reviewing all that material of our cluster and others, the committee will offer a recommendation to Archbishop Sean. After hearing from the Presbyteral Council, the Archbishop will announce his decisions. The whole process should take about two months. Please continue to pray that the Holy Spirit will guide and bless us through this process and beyond.