St. Paul's Church in Millis stops holding services

From Massachusetts-

A local Episcopal church announced Sunday that it has indefinitely suspended all worship services and day-to-day operations due to financial problems attributed in part to declining numbers.

St. Paul's Church at 903 Main St. will no longer hold Sunday services or Sunday school. The church's officials and congregation are currently in talks with the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts to determine what to do next.

"St. Paul's is facing some financial challenges as well as congregational challenges," said Tracey Sukraw, director of communication for the diocese. "So worship services as well as day-to-day operations have been suspended."

Sukraw said one problem is that congregants are divided over how to solve the financial problems.

The numbers of parishioners has dwindled over time but is not playing "a significant role" in the congregation's woes, she said. The declining numbers indirectly led to the parish's financial problems, Sukraw said.

The decision to suspend services also means St. Paul's will not host its annual flea market or "Windows in Bloom" celebration on May 15.

"We're in contact with the Episcopal Diocese regarding our situation," said Helen Daly, a representative of St. Paul's, in an e-mail. "Unfortunately, we have no additional information to offer at this time."

More here-

http://www.milforddailynews.com/topstories/x1195009562/St-Pauls-Church-in-Millis-stops-holding-services