WASHINGTON - The sound of bells ringing at Saint Gabriel Church in Northwest is a sacred sound for some, but a nuisance for others who say the constant noise is irritating.

D.C. resident Malcolm Maiden said he is inspired by the sounds that come from the majestic church. "It's a joyous sound...," he said.

Some who live next to St. Gabriel's like Wilbert Brandy, however, said the bells are just plain annoying. "When you hear something that's become disturbing -- every 15 minutes ding dong," he said.

Father Augustine Mateo-Ayala admits his church's sound is different then most others nearby. Five months ago, the church went through a major renovation. With it came a $15,000 bell machine paid mostly by donations. It now rings every 15 minutes. He said the purpose is to bring the sound of peace to the neighborhood.

Church neighbor Janice Mason is hoping for a compromise. "The bells are not that melodious because it happens all day long; it's very disruptive when you're in the quiet of your home," she said.

Father Mateo-Ayala noted the irony of the situation is that he rings the bells and chimes for the neighborhood. "...having bells reminding us about God's presence should be a privilege," he said. 

Still, Father Mateo-Ayala said if he receives more complaints, he will consider shutting them down.

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