Vatican reverses parish closing

by Tom Gallagher

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Worshipers at a U.K. church controversially shut by Catholic diocesan authorities, have won an historic ruling from the Vatican that the closure order was "null and void."

Sts. Peter and Paul's church in New Brighton -- known as the "Dome of Home" because it is visible to sailors in Liverpool Bay -- was shut in 2008, despite protests from its parishioners.

The Diocese of Shrewsbury had insisted the church was too expensive to operate and moved services to the Anglican All Saints -- a step which angered many worshippers.

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This Vatican decision will likely serve another purpose: It will be the necessary miracle some blessed soul will need to become a saint!

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