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Few situations have garnered more attention in recent years than the decision to merge five Catholic churches in Johnstown’s Cambria City neighborhood and close three of the venerable buildings.
Beginning tonight, those interested in the future of the structures can attend a series of meetings whose organizers hope will lead to viable and appropriate plans for the now-closed St. Columba, Immaculate Conception and SS. Casimir and Emerich churches.
The Altoona-Johnstown Diocese chose to implement the changes two years ago. A new church – Resurrection Parish – now calls the former St. Stephen’s church home, while St. Rochus also is being used by the merged congregation.
But what will become of the other three?
Earlier this year, diocese spokesman Tony DeGol said: “The goal is to try to do whatever we can to preserve the church buildings.”
Key players in the process are the Save Our Steeples community group and the Johnstown Area Heritage Association.
But they need others to get involved.
Here’s the schedule of events for the week:
Tonight: Overview of situation with the churches and an opportunity for the sharing of ideas; 7 p.m., Heritage Discover Center, 201 Sixth Ave.
Friday: Tours of the Cambria City churches; 8 to 9 a.m.; meet at Immaculate Conception, Third Avenue and Broad Street. This will be followed by a meeting to continue idea-sharing and planning, 9 a.m. to noon, Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center, 411 Third Ave.
Saturday: Final meeting, 1 p.m., Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center.
The public is welcome to participate in all sessions.
Possible uses for the three closed churches could include the arts, social services or for-profit endeavors.
Several architects have agreed to take part in this week’s sessions, along with the Philadelphia organization Partners for Sacred Places, which specializes in church preservation and reuse.
We urge all who have an interest in the future of these meaningful and beautiful churches to attend one or all of these sessions.
This is your opportunity to help shape their future.
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