New Bedford Church Closes

St. Kilian Church held their last mass on Sunday.

The New Bedford church is closing for good after water damage in the church's roof became too expensive to repair, with parishioners telling ABC 6 attendance was too low to absorb renovation fees.

"The leaks have been there for quite a few years,” said Pastor Octavio Cortez.

For many parishioners like Cindy Duran-Ayala St. Kilian was more than a place of worship, it was like a second home.

"We're all feeling a big loss, because this place means a lot to us,” said Duran-Ayala.

The parish will merge with St. Anthony of Padua Church and, while saying it is a sad day, Pastor Cortez is urging his parishioners to be hopeful and thankful.

"Be thankful for it and to look forward to see what the lord has in store for us at St. Anthony. To be confident that he is taking care of us," said Pastor Cortez.

There will be a procession this evening from St. Kilians to St. Anthony of Padua Church beginning at 6:15 p.m. with Holy Mass beginning at 7 p.m.