Mass will no longer be held at Christ the Redeemer Church in Milford after 55 years - the Archdiocese of Hartford is merging the church into nearby Precious Blood Parish this month.

Irene Ramos, who played the organ at Christ the Redeemer Church, for more than 51 of its 55 years, says she remembers countless weddings and funerals held there as well as picnics behind the church rectory.

Mass hasn't been held at Christ the Redeemer since June 1. Parishioners can instead attend services at St. Agnes Church on Merwin Avenue or at St. Mary's on Gulf Street.

Deacon John Hoffman, who was assigned to St. Mary's when it was merged with St. Agnes to form Precious Blood, says there just weren't enough priests available to support all three parishes.

Ramos says Christ the Redeemer was more than a parish - it was a family.

Christ the Redeemer is still available for weddings and funerals. Ramos says she's happy to sit in on the organ for any special occasions.