Dear Editor:

It is with sadness, but not much surprise, that I am penning this letter re: the resale of the property formerly known as St. Michael’s Parish in Lansford, Penna.

I wish to thank the current owners of this property for the improvements they made to the buildings that were in such dire need of repair, but neglected by the town and the diocese of Allentown.

It is lovely to drive down from Summit Hill and see the new facelift of the tower of St. Michael’s, that has been a landmark for many years. The rectory building, with its facelift, apparently has been enjoyed by many thus far … but, sadly, none of this apparently has been in His plan.

St. Michael’s belongs to the miners who paid for it, to God, whose home it is, and to the many parishioners who have been displaced, and have lost connection to the Lord because their Church has been taken over for non-liturgical activity, for resale value of the windows, and other valuables that are irreplaceable.

During my visits to Europe, I attended magnificent services in cathedrals and churches that were bombed, had no heat, but survived because the flock of parishioners knew they needed the word of God and sacraments close to and available to them. How many souls have been lost due to closure of the Churches? What is the cost, Spiritually?

I leave you with these questions to ponder!!!! Was it worth it, and what has been gained?

With best wishes to the new owners, whoever they may be!

Pochvaleny Bud Jesus Kristus (Praise Be Jesus Christ).

A proud Slovak daughter,

RITA KRAJCIRIK KLEKAMP

Lansford