The Diocese of Allentown confirmed that the church, located on 2nd Street, is being prepared for closure in January 2026 following a request from parish leadership at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Ashland, which has overseen the Girardville site since its consolidation a decade ago.
According to the Diocese, the decision follows mounting financial and structural challenges. The church requires an estimated $250,000 in exterior repairs, including attention to aging roofs. Interior conditions have also been deemed unsafe. Annual operating costs—nearly $20,000—have further strained the parish’s ability to maintain the facility.
Saint Vincent de Paul Church was closed as a parish in 2015 but continued operating as a worship site for St. Charles Borromeo. Regular weekend Masses ended in 2021, and since then the building has seen only limited liturgical use. Parish leadership said that all services previously held in Girardville can be fully accommodated at the main church in Ashland.
Both the Finance and Pastoral Councils of St. Charles Borromeo Parish voted in favor of the closure, citing the significant repairs needed and the inability to justify major expenditures for a site used only occasionally.
In a statement, the Diocese acknowledged the emotional weight of the announcement for Girardville residents, many of whom have deep family and sacramental ties to the church.
“The Diocese recognizes the emotional significance of Saint Vincent de Paul Church for the Girardville community and is grateful for all who worshipped and celebrated the Sacraments there,” the announcement read. “We remain committed to serving the faithful of Schuylkill County and strengthening our support during this time of transition.”
A Christmas even mass is scheduled for the church on December 24th, 2025 at 8:00pm and a closing mass will take place January 5th, 2026 at 5:00pm.