The closings come after the Archdiocese of Detroit shut down 29 inner-city parishes last year.

More recently, the church has faced an increased demand for churches in the suburbs and a decline in attendance to inner-city parishes.

Božnar works with Bishop Lennon's programs to cluster parishes in order to increase strength for inner-city parishes.

We built our church, in our inner-city parish, about 20 years ago.

Where there is a skilled director with commitment and an attractive personality in an inner-city parish, it may be possible to produce excellent musical results.

Father Ray runs an inner-city parish.

The appeal provides operating money for programs including schools, inner-city parishes and spiritual formation classes.

This continuity came at a cost, as many inner-city parishes battle shrinking resources, crumbling buildings and a decline in religious vocations.

The Archdiocese of Chicago is considering closing two landmark churches, and 20 other inner-city parishes might be disbanded or merged.

This Christmas Eve, more than a few inner-city parishes will hold Midnight Mass early in the evening so that parishioners can get home safely.