Pocono News Section

Another Church Closes in Luzerne County

Another Church Closes in Luzerne County - Sunday, July 26, 2009 at 11:10PM EST

Reported by: Eyewitness News
Sunday, Jul 26, 2009 @ 11:10pm EST
WILKES-BARRE TWP., LUZERNE COUNTY- It was a sad day for Roman Catholics at St. JosephÕs, the only Catholic church in Wilkes-Barre Township. It closed its doors Sunday as part of the Diocese of Scranton's consolidation plan.

It was an emotional day as parishioners will now join St. Mary Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the city of Wilkes-Barre.

For one last time the faithful lifted their voices in song inside St. Joseph's church Sunday. Shortly after this final liturgy the doors to the 119-year-old building were closed for good.

George Sisko said, ÒIt was one of the saddest days I've seen in Wilkes-Barre Township in my entire 80 years in this community."

Parishioner after parishioner remembered countless weddings and baptisms inside these walls. Margaret Molitoris said, ÒVery sad. ItÕs just like a funeral for me. ItÕs very, very sad."

Molitoris attended St. Joe's for 70 years. ÒIt was so close for us to come here. It was just a stones throw. Two minutes and we were at church," she said.

Following the service religious icons from the church were removed. They were all brought to St. Mary Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

John Molitoris III said, ÒIt was tough. I've been coming here 27 years. The priest that baptized me was here today."

Despite all of the sadness the faithful say they know their church is more than just brick and mortar.

ItÕs about the people and their faith. Father John Terry said, ÒOur hearts go out to all the people here at St. Joe's and all the churches that are being closed. Time has a way of healing things."