UPDATE: St. Adalbert’s Church in Glen Lyon held its final Mass on Sunday, October 15, 2023, marking the end of an era after 136 years. The service, officiated by Bishop Joseph C. Bambera, drew a significant gathering of parishioners, who shared heartfelt memories and farewells as the church doors closed for the last time.
Joseph Molski, aged 91 and the church’s eldest parishioner, symbolically locked the doors, bringing a poignant conclusion to the community’s long-standing spiritual home. Following the Mass, the congregation will merge with the St. Faustina Parish community in nearby Nanticoke. This transition also includes parishioners from St. Mary’s in Mocanaqua, which will continue to serve as a worship site.
The closing Mass was filled with emotion as attendees lined up to touch the altar for the final time. Many parishioners, including Mary Kashatus, expressed their deep connection to the church, sharing stories of faith and community that spanned generations.
Bishop Bambera addressed the congregation, acknowledging the church’s rich history since its establishment in 1889. “Today, we honor the legacy of St. Adalbert’s and the countless lives it has touched,” he stated.
The closing of St. Adalbert’s marks a significant moment not only for its parishioners but for the wider Glen Lyon community, illustrating the challenges many local churches face in today’s changing landscape. As communities adapt, the merger with St. Faustina Parish represents a new chapter, offering parishioners a chance to continue their faith journey together.
Looking ahead, parishioners are encouraged to participate in upcoming events at St. Faustina Parish, ensuring that the spirit of St. Adalbert’s lives on in a new community setting.
This emotional farewell resonates beyond Glen Lyon, reflecting a broader trend of church closures across the nation. As communities grapple with these changes, the importance of maintaining faith connections remains crucial.
