Despite pleas from parishioners, city councilors, the mayor, and state representatives, the Fall River Diocese is still planning to close St. John The Baptist Church in New Bedford.

The Diocese says the church is in financial straits and the congregation has been on the decline.

Last mass at the 141-year-old church is this Sunday, but churchgoers aren't going down without a fight. President of Friends of St. John's, Fred Langevin tells WBSM News the church has been raising money in hopes that Bishop George Coleman will see things differently....

Langevin says he's fully prepared to take the appeal to the Congregation of the Clergy in Rome.

Last mass is this Sunday at 10am at St. John The Baptist Church at County and Allen Streets in New Bedford.

More From WBSM-AM/AM 1420