Pocono News Section

End of an Era for former Church

End of an Era for former Church - Monday, December 7, 2009 at 10:45PM EST

Reported by: Eyewitness News
Monday, Dec 7, 2009 @ 10:45pm EST
PITTSTON, LUZERNE COUNTY- An entire parish complex in Pittston is getting the wrecking ball.

The buildings of the old St. John the Baptist parish are all slated for demolition. The 107-year-old church was closed last year.

Since then, parishioners have joined the church across the street. Nearly all of the stained glass and all items of religious value have been removed.

Work actually got a jump start today, to the surprise of churchgoers like Jean Mudlock "See I'm surprised it was supposed to start tomorrow.

When I came here this evening and the rectory is almost totally down, it's just, it's just, it's hard to take it really is."

Msgr. John Bendik was surprised as well. "As far as it moving as quickly as it has, I didn't quite expect them to be done this quickly. But you have live with the reality. There was a rectory here this morning, yes rectory, gone, a garage behind it gone."

We're told the demolition project will make way for much-needed parking. The church will be the last building torn down.

The job is expected to be completed in March.