Youngstown Bishop, David Bonnar has issued a decree formally closing St. Cyril and Methodius Church in Warren.

This decision was made after consulting with the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown's Presbyteral Council in accordance with Church law.

The decree formalizes a discernment process and follows an April announcement that Bishop Bonnar has confirmed St. Elizabeth Ann Seton pastor, Father Christopher Cicero's recommendation of St. James Church as the parish's worship site.

A closing Mass will be held at St. Cyril and Methodius Church in May.

In a letter to parishioners, Bishop Bonnar reassured that he's directed the his diocesan office of patrimony to catalogue and preserve sacred objects from the church in order to preserve its history.

In addition, Bishop Bonnar confirmed that St. Peter and Paul Church will serve as the primary worship site for Holy Apostles Parish in Youngstown, as well as the location for the parish's one weekend Mass effective June 1.

Bonnar confirmed the recommendation of parish pastor, Father Joseph Rudjak that St. Stephen of Hungary's campus to serve as the parish's office and pastoral center offering a gathering place for prayer groups, speakers and other forms of missionary work.