Parroquial Santa Rosa de Lima

Guaimaca, F.M.

Honduras, C.A

June 9, 2004

 

Dear Bishop O'Malley,

I am writing this letter to urge you to reconsider your decision to close Sacred Heart Church in Lexington. This parish has been instrumental in supporting our mission in Guaimaca, Honduras and closing this church would have adverse effects not only on our mission but on the people of Honduras.

The parishioners of Sacred Heart parish have been involved in our mission in several ways. Medical groups and other professionals have donated their time and talents to work in our mission in Guaimaca. Where, as you well know, the needs are so extreme and diverse. It is from this group that the stipend is sent to pay a doctor for our parish clinic. With Dr. Karina and myself working in the clinic we are able to meet the needs of twice as many people. As most of our cliental arrives from the mountain villages, we feel that we are serving the poorest of the poor in Honduras.

With giving hearts, Sacred Heart parishioners have donated more that $5,000 to our mission work in Guaimaca. In addition, they have recently sent $1,300 to initiate a safe drinking water project. This is a necessary program that will improve the health of thousands.

I know, Bishop O'Malley, you are faced with very painful and difficult decisions but I want to let you know the full impact of closing Sacred Heart Church, not just on the community of Lexington, but on the people they are serving in other countries. Sacred Heart parishioners have donated significant time & money for the health and social needs of the people of Honduras. On behalf of the poor that we serve in this special mission you had the inspiration to start, please give this decision additional thought and prayer.

With deep respect and my prayers,

Sister Maria Ceballos OP

Guaimaca, Honduras June 9, 2004