Tears of sadness and reflection were shed by the parishioners of St. Andrew and St. Lawrence Roman Catholic churches Sunday as both parishes officially closed the doors of their North Catasauqua churches.

The parishes held a ceremonial locking of the doors after the 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. services.

John Marhefka of North Catasauqua led the parish out of the St. Andrew's church building holding a lit altar candle. Bill Molchany Sr. of North Catasauqua locked the sanctuary doors. Officially witnessing the locking was Joe Kalamar of North Catasauqua. The next time the doors would open, it would be to the new St. John Fisher sanctuary.

Later that morning, Fred Hutterer of North Catasauqua led the parish members out of the sanctuary holding a lit altar candle and North Catasauqua resident Pauline Albert was responsible for the ceremonial final locking of the St. Lawrence church doors after the Mass.

Beginning 4 p.m. this Saturday both churches will officially merge into St. John Fisher and celebrate Mass at the former St. Andrew's parish building, 1239 Third St., North Catasauqua.

During the Mass, St. Lawrence Lector Lee Bolmer of Catasauqua reflected on the many generations who worshipped in the parish.

Despite the merger of the two parishes, he said, a bright, promising future awaits the parishioners.

"This Sunday then marks the end of something beautiful," he said. "Let us always remember God is always creating something new."

Northampton resident Kim McCloskey, one of the members who helped spearhead the creation of the new St. John Fisher Parish, said although she is sad by the closing of St. Lawrence, she is excited to begin a new chapter.

"I'll be able to say I founded St. John Fisher," she said.

St. John Fisher Father Eric Gruber, who had served both parishes jointly, told The Press the church merger will not alter the mission of the parishioners and the unified church.

"Today means we begin to let go and begin to take on the new identity with the same identity of Jesus," he said.

Last year, the Allentown Diocese announced both parishes would merge within a year.

The St. Lawrence building, located at 1003 Second St., Catasauqua, will continue to be used for special events and occasions.