FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 22, 2010

STATEMENT ON SAINT MARGARET MARY PARISH

Father Keith Fennessy, pastor of Saint Margaret Mary parish on Staten Island, announced in June that after careful consideration he was withdrawing his support for the planned sale of the parish convent to the Muslim American Society.

The trustees of the parish have met, as legally required under New York State law, and voted to ratify the pastor’s decision.

The Muslim American Society has been informed that the sale of the convent will not take place.

The Archdiocese of New York has enjoyed a good relationship with the Islamic community in the past, and looks forward to continued dialogue, friendship, and understanding in the future.

It is also our prayer that unity will now return to the parish and to the Midland Beach community.

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