Parishioners from St. Rose Church in Springfield, Kentucky, gathered on July 20 for the blessing of the newly reopened Cartwright Creek Bridge. The bridge, which connects St. Rose to Bardstown Road/Highway 150, had been under construction for 17 months.

Dominican Father Pier Giorgio Dengler, pastor of St. Rose, explained that the project aimed to widen what was previously a very narrow crossing. He noted that for almost a year during construction, the bridge was reduced to one lane. “Providing Mass-goers an extra few minutes of time to recollect themselves before and after their visit to the oldest Dominican foundation in Kentucky,” said Father Dengler in an email.

Father Dengler also expressed appreciation for the support received from local authorities during the event. “We’re especially grateful to Deputy Troy Logsdon … and the local law enforcement officers,” he said, adding thanks to the Washington County Sheriff’s office for making it possible to hold the blessing.