Reverend C. Peter Dumont
Saint Paul Parish
Saint Peter Parish
567 Manchester Road
Auburn, NH 03032-3123

Dear Father Dumont:

    I received and reviewed your letter indicating that it is the unanimous consensus of the pastoral councils of Saint Paul Parish and Saint Peter Parish that you ask for unification of Saint Paul Parish into Saint Peter Parish.  I also understand that this unification is your recommendation as pastor of both parishes.

    I was pleased to see the amount of consultation that you had with leaders in both parishes and that you held a meeting open to all parishioners to seek input.  I know that you have also communicated your recommendation to your parishioners.

    In addition I received a report from the Office of Planning that reflected the process you followed and agreed with your recommendation that we move forward with unification. 

    I approve your recommendation and ask that you begin to work with Patrick McGee, Secretary for Communication, Planning and Development, on a plan to complete our due diligence process.  As you are aware, following this process, I will share the due diligence report with the Presbyteral Council and the diocesan Finance Council.  After I hear from both bodies, I will render my final decision.  Barring any concerns from these consultative groups, I will establish issue a Decree of Unification effective around June 30, 2010.

    Thank you for your leadership in these parishes.  I realize parish changes are difficult, but I know you will continue to be a good shepherd to all those in Saint Paul and Saint Peter parishes.

                        Yours in the Lord,

                        John McCormack
                        Bishop of Manchester