Photo Caption: Members of Sacred Heart, Rutland, leave the church after the closing Mass on July 7. Sacred Heart has merged into St. Ann Parish, Toluca.

RUTLAND — At the final Mass at Sacred Heart Church here, many commented on the beauty of the more than century-old church, including its striking stained glass windows. But from where he stood between the front pews to give his homily at a special afternoon Mass on July 7, Father Luke Poczworowski, OFM Conv., pastor, saw something even more beautiful.

The people and their faith.

“We may not have this building, but we are the building blocks of the church,” said Father Luke. “Our forefathers and grandparents would be disappointed if we close Sacred Heart and we didn’t do anything else. Take advantage of the gift they gave us. Share it with others.”

Sacred Heart has been merged into St. Ann’s Parish in Toluca. The closing Mass and following reception on July 7 under the theme “Remembering 138 Years” was one of several such emotional scenes in the diocese in recent weeks as parishes are reorganized through the ongoing “Growing in Faith Together” planning initiative.

In Rutland, several former pastors returned to celebrate the closing Mass. Former parishioners came to add their voices to the choir, share memories, and offer prayers of gratitude for blessings past and present.

“I was very sad, for everyone” said Kathy Rossman, a member since 1967 and who was in charge of the reception at the American Legion Hall, where photos and memorabilia from the parish’s history were on display. “But it’s also a day to rejoice. We’ve had so many years here — a small parish with excellent priests.”

The chalice used during the Mass was from the church’s 1910 dedication. Father Luke told the assembly decisions regarding the future of the church and its contents are still being made.