EAST BOSTON -- The Archdiocese of Boston ended a seven year vigil protesting the closure of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in East Boston when it changed the locks on the church April 18.

The parish was suppressed in October 2004, and vigil participation recently included Sunday prayer services at the church.

"The Archdiocese of Boston seeks a respectful and prayerful resolution to the vigils, including Our Lady of Mount Carmel. We understand that those who have opposed the closing of Our Lady of Mount Carmel desired a different outcome," a statement from the archdiocese said.

The statement urged the former parishioners to find another parish in the Church to continue practicing their faith.

"For the better part of seven years we have permitted the vigil while the petitioners pursued various appeals. The time for this vigil to end has come. We pray that they will choose to join an open and welcoming parish to experience the fullness of their faith through parish life," it said.