The merging of two Pennsylvania congregations forces one local parish to close its doors.

Saint John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church in South Waverly held its final liturgy today.

The 132-year old parish will join with the Epiphany congregation in Sayre.

The mass also marks the end to Father Vincent Langan's pastorship.

Langan began his priesthood in the area almost fifty years ago.

Serving the St Johns Parish Community for 34 years.

Members of the congregation say it's a difficult transition.

"I can't imagine what a loss he's feeling. I know that the church is not a building, but it's a group of people, a community, a parish."

Langan is 75, and church rules require him to retire.

He was the seventh pastor of Saint John's.

The St, John and Epiphany congregations are two of the latest churches to merge, as dioceses across the area are faced with fewer parishioners and priests.