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Bridgeport Diocese To Close Three Churches

BRIDGEPORT, CT (WCBS 880) - The Bridgeport Diocese says three churches in the city will have to close early next year in order to make the most of the shortage of priests and other resources.

WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau On The Story

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"This started in 2008 when the pastors came to him and said 'We've got some problems here. We're just not getting it done because we don't have the resources and we're spread too thin,'" said diocese spokesman Brian Wallace. "The bishop made it very clear to say this is not driven by money. It was driven by pastoral care and the need to renew and make more viable parishes."

Chris Caruso, a lifelong member of the Holy Rosary Church in Bridgeport, one of those that would be closed, argues that his church is financially viable.

"The money that we saved, we raised through festivals, individuals that passed away left money for the church, that's why we have savings of $250,000," he said.

The diocese, on the other hand, says collections at Holy Rosary pay only a third of its expenses.

Caruso says a committee is being formed to fight the closure, adding that over the last year, they've had a 30 percent increase in attendance.

Also on the chopping block are St. Ambrose Parish and St. Raphael Parish.

How do you feel about the situation in the Bridgeport Diocese? Sound off in the comments section below!

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