BANGOR, Pa. – The Roman Catholic Diocese of Allentown says an aging Northampton County church structure is in need of costly repairs and will have to close its doors.
Officials reported this past weekend that The Our Lady of Good Counsel (OLGC) church building in Bangor is scheduled to close.
The building needs a new roof and replacement of rotted roof trusses, along with a complete HVAC system replacement within the next few years. Church officials also cite the need for plumbing repairs and say nesting squirrels and bats in the structure have caused health concerns.
The building currently serves as a worship site for Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Roseto.
Diocesan officials say after OLGC closes, people who attend the one weekly mass there will be invited to worship during one of three weekly masses held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, located 1.2 miles away.
“For everyone who would rather not see this building close, please know that I and all parishioners of Our Lady of Mount Carmel will do everything we possibly can to welcome you to worship with us in Roseto,” said Father Daniel Kravatz, pastor.
A town hall meeting was held with parishioners in September to discuss the future of the building and to seek input on the best course of action moving forward.
The final Mass at Our Lady of Good Counsel will be celebrated on Saturday, February 7.