Ashaway parish merges into Hope Valley church after decades of separate operations
Bishop Bruce A. Lewandowski approved the consolidation, which preserves both worship sites while combining financial and administrative resources in Washington County.
By Elijah Fitzgerald ·
The Diocese of Providence has formally merged Our Lady of Victory Parish in Ashaway into St. Joseph Parish in Hope Valley. Bishop Bruce A. Lewandowski issued the decree, which took effect during weekend Masses this week. The consolidation combines the two congregations into a single entity known as the enlarged St. Joseph Parish, while retaining both church buildings for active use.
The decision addresses declining participation at the Ashaway location, which has seen a steady drop in attendance. In 2024, Our Lady of Victory recorded no baptisms or marriages, three First Communions, and five confirmations. Average weekend Mass attendance stood at approximately 90 that year. By July 2026, attendance at the parish's single Sunday Mass had fallen to an average of 71. The diocese noted that the parish had about 154 registered individuals as of May.
St. Joseph Parish in Hope Valley has maintained more consistent attendance and sacramental activity. The two villages are both located within Hopkinton. The parishes have shared a pastor since 2019 and already split costs for a bookkeeper, secretary, and religious education director. The merger formalizes an existing operational structure rather than creating a new one.
The Rev. Francesco Francese, who serves as pastor of St. Joseph and administrator of Our Lady of Victory, led the proposal. He stated that the move follows consultation with parish leadership and diocesan representatives. Francese said he discerned that strengthening the relationship between the two communities would benefit the Church's mission in Washington County. He described the new structure as encompassing both church sites, with pastoral life continuing at each location.
Lewandowski approved the merger after reviewing the request from the pastors, trustees, and finance councils of both parishes. The diocesan Council of Priests also reviewed the plan. The bishop said he is praying for the parishioners and expressed hope that the merger will create a stronger parish capable of continuing its ministry. This action follows a pattern of consolidation in the diocese, including mergers in Warren and East Providence in May.
Administrative records for Our Lady of Victory will now be maintained at St. Joseph Parish. The diocese has called for a review of parish viability across the region to ensure resources are allocated effectively. The merger aims to consolidate financial support while keeping both physical worship spaces open to their respective communities.
