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DEAR EDITOR:
As a parishioner of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, I would like to point out a very sad situation that occurred.
I pondered writing this for two years, but feel this has to be told.
In 2023, after the completion of the renovation at the church, my elderly father noticed that the Sanctus bells were no longer rung at the consecration during mass. Sadly he missed the sound of the bells.
In March, upon missing the sound of the bells, my father purchased and donated bells to be rung again. Many parishioners thanked him and related they missed the bells also.
Unfortunately the bells suddenly stopped ringing. Curiously, when asked why the bells were silenced, we were told the decision of the acting administrator.
Upon hearing this I reached out to the acting administrator and was told that it was his decision that the bells would no longer be used. He explained according to the most recent church findings the bells were optional. When I pressed the issue and asked if the ringing was prohibited he did admit it was not prohibited.
In April of that year I sent a certified letter to the Bishop (Youngstown Diocese) asking his opinion, citing these same Sanctus bells are used in Rome at the Pope's masses.
The bishop did not respond, but I did get a response from the Monsignor Vicar General. The letter stated "The rubrics of the Roman Missal No. 150 leaves it to the discretion of the pastor/administrator whether a bell should be used or not," suggesting the new pastor make the decision.
Again, I reached out to the bishop explaining further. Other parishioners were asking about the bells and how the bells were suddenly silent. All of this because of a temporary administrator appointed to the parish.
In response to my second letter I received a response from this temporary administrator, chasting me for not addressing him properly. I referred to him as "Deacon." He stated he took umbrage to my "lack of respect and regards towards him. Needless to say I was shocked. Just because I accidentally did not address you as "The Most Reverend." I am sorry, but I do not care how many letters are behind your name, or how many positions you have served in, you are a person just like me. No more, no less.
Now unfortunately my Dad, one of the oldest members of the congregation, is broken hearted and no longer attends. We are going elsewhere -- to a parish that rings the Santus bells and appreciates the attendance we show. After over 50 years of support for this church, sadly he must go elsewhere.
Shame on you, Bishop, for not addressing my letter and shame on you, administrator, for not allowing the simple beautiful sound of the bells.
ANN MAJECIC
Warren