Three Closing Catholic Churches Lead July 4 Parade

Manayunk's three closing Catholic churches will say goodbye to the community on July 4.

During the 182nd Independence Day parade in Roxborough, will lead the procession, with members from s and accompanying them. The event is organized by the 21st Ward Fourth of July Association, Assistant Parade Marshal Carol Spangenberg said.

"It's so sad for these churches and their members for them to close. We will all miss them," she said.

Earlier this year, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia announced that — and Although the three buildings will be available for weddings, funerals and Holy Days, for the time being, each will celebrate their last weekly mass July 1.

Although officially closed by the Wednesday holiday, church members will march for the last time July 4.

In total, 21 churches will gather at Manayunk and Lyceum Avenues for the 9 a.m. parade July 4, Spartenburg said. The march processes down Lyceum Avenue and splits at Ridge Avenue. She said it takes a little longer than an hour.

The theme this year comes from the Bible verse Luke 2:14—"Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth to people of good will." Churches will march in accordance to that idea.

Linda Marie Bell, president of the committee, said Sunday schools also will march July 4.

Aside from the Catholic churches, Spartenburg said the four area Episcopal churches will feature bagpipes.

Additionally, bands will perform Wednesday.

Marchers should line up by 8:15 a.m. July 4.