St. Hedwig Church will close in September

A cross hangs on the rectory of St. Hedwig which is closing on September 1.

St. Hedwig Church, an anchor in North Toledo’s Polish Village for more than a century, will close in September except for special events such as weddings, the church’s pastor told parishioners during Sunday Mass.

The Rev. Joseph Poggemeyer, pastor of Sts. Adalbert and Hedwig Parish, said the St. Hedwig campus would close effective Sept. 1

The two churches, both located in Lagrange Street, were merged into a single parish two years ago. St. Adalbert Church will remain open.

“They are old buildings with a lot of problems and bills,” Father Poggemeyer said.

“I know it is really hard for parishioners and we will still use the building,” he said. “I have heard many people say that they knew this was coming.”

The number of people attending Mass during three services at both churches could be accommodated by a single Mass at St. Adalbert, Father Poggemeyer said.

People in the neighborhood were disappointed to learn of the closing.

“They are closing all of the positive things in the neighborhood,” said Norb Kirian, a former parishioner who operates a handyman business on Lagrange near Mettler Street.

“I have been in this neighborhood all my life,” Mr. Kirian said. “It is just one thing after another here.”