Pocono News Section

Churches Close by the Dozen

Churches Close by the Dozen - Sunday, June 1, 2008 at 1:44PM EST

Reported by: Mike Trim
Sunday, Jun 1, 2008 @ 01:44pm EST
McADOO, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY- Sooner or later, parishioners here at St. Kenedunda in McAdoo knew their church would close.

This weekend, the Diocese of Allentown made it official. St. Kunedunda member Andy Sherkness says, "Everybody knew that it was coming, but some people just can't accept the fact and the only thing that's really certain is that things are going to change."

That change was announced this weekend, including here at the 10:00 mass Sunday morning. Some cried and looked for comfort after hearing the news. St. Kunedunda member Victoria Gennaro says, "Stunned silence, some tears. I think we saw it coming and I think a lot of people were upset with the process."

St. Kunedunda is one of nearly 40 churches closing, or merging. St. Mary's on Grant Street is another church scheduled to close. The diocese says a lack of priests is the reason. Changes are scheduled for July 15th.

When St. Kunedunda closes the diocese wants this congregation and 5 others to use the St. Patrick's church building down the street. A new church called All Saints Parish will be formed here at the St. Patrick's building.

The old Kunedunda buildings here will be used for a chapel and office. Parishioners hope for the best. St. Kunedunda member David Rodick says, "It's troubling to see a church close in such a small community like this. But hopefully we'll be able to move on and maintain the faith."