CAMPBELL, Ohio (WKBN) – The Vatican’s Dicastery for the Clergy has officially confirmed the closing of a Campbell church.

The diocese announced the decision last year that two of its churches, Saint Lucy Church and Saint Joseph the Provider Church, would close after accruing nearly $850,000 in debt.

The closing of St. Lucy’s caused a small group of parishioners to appeal the decision. The Vatican reviewed the appeal and decided to maintain the Diocese’s closure of the church.

The church was merged into St. John the Baptist Church late last year.

“I am grateful to the Dicastery for this decision. Last November, we celebrated the last Mass at Saint Lucy Church, and also at Saint Joseph the Provider Church. Endings are always painful, but now we have the opportunity for resolution so that the parish can live its mission going forward,” said Bishop David Bonnar.