---

During the recent cold snap, temperatures dropped below freezing and people were warned that mere minutes outside could result in frostbite.

But for those with no place to come in from the cold, St. Mary's/Our Lady of the Lake Church in Cooperstown has opened its doors.

Since Christmas Day, the parish has forgone locking the church doors at the end of the day and kept their sanctuary open 24 hours a day for anyone who might need shelter, warmth or just somewhere to pray.

"The doors to a church are symbols. They are more than just functional. They are sacramental. Locked church doors make a statement to a community on a continuing basis," explained Rev. John Rosson, pastor.

"A shuttered church says the church is more than closed - it is not accessible, not available and it is not part of the everyday community," he said.

Many churches typically remain locked during the day, often for safety reasons. But St. Mary's is aided in its efforts by a local restaurant, which donated pillows for weary visitors; the police department, which may refer people to St. Mary's for help; and the Presbyterian church in Cooperstown, which is also leaving its doors open for the winter.

Father Rosson explained that St. Mary's Church had already been kept open at other times to provide opportunities for quiet prayer. Even when the weather turns favorable again, he hopes the church can be a place of respite in emergency to travelers and those in need.

"When I became pastor here 10 years ago," he said, "I made a promise to myself to try to keep the church open as long and as much as possible - because the church should be open, both metaphorically and physically."

(02/03/11) [[In-content Ad]]

---