Parishes seek OK to demolish Brier Hill oratory

BRIER HILL — The parishes of Hammond and Morristown have decided to tear down Our Lady of Grace Oratory in Brier Hill.

The parish council, which is made up of members of the communities, sent a letter to the Ogdensburg Diocese requesting permission for the demolition.

"The parish doesn't ever want to see it become something else," the Rev. Kevin D. McEwan said. "If you sell it, it could become anything."

Since it was designated an oratory five years ago, which means it can be used only for certain Masses and wedding ceremonies, Our Lady of Grace has seen a steady decline in use. Recently the structure itself began to crumble. Father McEwan said he feared water infiltration from the leaky roof could damage the pews and religious items.

"There was a realization that it will probably never be used again," Mr. McEwan said. "They felt this was the best option."

There are no dates for when demolition will begin. The council is looking into the cost of the project and figuring what money can be recovered from selling the materials.

"We're trying to do this as economically as possible," Father McEwan said.

Although there is no longer much use for the oratory, which is flanked by churches in Morristown and Hammond, the decision was difficult for the council.

"It's never an easy decision, but it's not any easier to watch it decay and fall down," he said.