New Rockford Church to Close after 124 Years

NEW ROCKFORD, N.D. (AP) — A United Methodist Church in New Rockford will hold its last service on Nov. 20 after 124 years of worship.

The Rev. Dale Emery tells the Grand Forks Herald (http://bit.ly/uoMDXq) that decreased financial giving and a shrinking population led the congregation to disband.

Emery has been the part-time pastor for the past 39 months.

Longtime organist Sharon Throlson, who moved last year with her husband, Gary, to Bismarck, will return to provide music for the closing 10 a.m. service.

Friends of the church are all invited to attend.

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Information from: Grand Forks Herald, http://www.grandforksherald.com

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.

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