BELDING, Mich. — After 120 years, Belding United Methodist Church is closing its doors in August.
The church, located at 301 Pleasant Street, has been a gathering place for the community for years.
But after low attendance and insurance costs rising, they have decided to close their doors.
Pastor Melissa Wagner said they have had a decline in attendance for years, and now only have 8 to 12 people show up to service on Sundays.
"We've tried," said Wagner. "We've been trying. We, for years, and about seven years ago, maybe it was eight years ago, we were, it was suggested that they close, and the congregation voted, and it was a little bigger then they wanted to continue until they couldn't go anymore. Now, some of that congregation has passed away, moved away, and what's left is eight to 12 people, and they just can't do it."
The church's final service is on August 11. They will continue to hold Sunday services until then.
Wagner said as they prepare to close they hope the church will be purchased and continued to be used for the community.
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