PROVIDENCE — Due to concern for the health and safety of his parishioners, Rev. Joseph Craddock, pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Providence, has requested that OLMC be closed indefinitely due to significant physical and structural deficiencies.
After consultation with diocesan staff, the Diocesan Consultors and the Council of Priests, Bishop Thomas J. Tobin has given his approval and parishioners were notified during Mass last weekend. The final Mass is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 8, 2015.
“The indefinite nature of the closing will afford us the time to study the ultimate viability of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish and to follow the required canonical actions about its future,” said Bishop Tobin. “While the closing of the church will undoubtedly be a disappointment for the remaining members of the parish, our serious obligation to promote the health and safety of those who visit the Church leaves me with no alternative. Parishioners are assured of my prayerful support during this time of transition.”
Several grave health and safety concerns were detailed in recent reports and a subsequent assessment by the Diocesan Facilities Department described the church “unfit for human occupancy.” Some of those concerns include lack of running water, structural deterioration to the bell tower, fire code deficiencies as well as mold and asbestos issues. The estimated cost of the repairs ranges from $1.1 million to $1.7 million.
Every effort will be made to continue the ongoing spiritual and pastoral care of parishioners who are encouraged to attend Mass at nearby Holy Ghost Church, 472 Atwells Ave., Providence or other churches in the area.
For more information on the assessment, please visit the diocesan website www.dioceseofprovidence.org.
