Diocese of Fall River to close five parishes in multiples cities

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WLNE) — The Diocese of Fall River announced the impending closure of five parishes over the weekend due to overextended priests, long-term decline in Mass attendance and finances.

The diocese plans to close St. Francis of Assisi in New Bedford, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus in Attleborough, and Our Lady of Grace, St. George and St. John the Baptist in Westport.

A new parish called Divine Mercy Parish will serve the three closed parishes in Westport starting on June 20.

The closings of the other two parishes will happen on June 30.

“I want to assure the faithful of these communities that the decision to close a parish is never made lightly or without deep prayer and discernment,” said Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha.

“Over the past year, I have worked closely with my cabinet, the Personnel Board, and diocesan leadership, seeking possible resources and exploring alternatives in assessing the future of our Diocese. Despite our best efforts, it is clear that we must make these changes.”

According the announcement from Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, the decision was made “to help our priests and act as better stewards of our resources.”