St. George lot, rectory to be listed for sale
KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / SHENANDOAH SENTINEL - A for sale sign is posted at the site of St. George's Lithuanian Catholic Church on June 16, 2024.
SHENANDOAH – It was the first permanent place for Lithuanian Catholics to gather and worship in the United States. It can now be your new home’s side yard.
The Diocese of Allentown confirmed to the Sentinel Monday morning that the former site of St. George’s Lithuanian Catholic Church will be on the market in the coming days, bundled with the rectory next door.
“It is part of Divine Mercy Parish’s efforts to economize,” Lina Tavarez, executive director of communications for the diocese, said. “The proceeds of the sale will go to the parish.”
She said the former rectory, a three-story brick home, and the church lot will be sold for fair market value.
Online listings show it will be up for sale beginning Wednesday for $139,900, and signs were already posted on the property Sunday.
“This home features large rooms with high ceilings and some beautiful hardwood floors,” one listing reads. “The first floor features two office rooms, a dining room, a large kitchen with a half bath, and a rear laundry room.”
“The home was currently being utilized as a three bedroom home, but can be easily be utilized as a six bedroom home, with two full baths and two half baths,” it continues. “This home also consists of a large roomy basement with a half bath which needs a little work, and a walk out basement to the side yard.”
St. George’s Church was the first Lithuanian parish in the United States, and the church was controversially razed in 2009 despite vocal and swift objections.
The impressive two-tower structure was a focal point in the Shenandoah skyline, as well.
Ever since its demolition, a billboard along the Gold Star Highway has reminded motorists headed into town to remember the church.
The Diocese has offloaded several of its shuttered buildings in the Shenandoah area in the past few years through private sales, including St. Stephen’s Church and Hall, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, and St. Stanislaus School.
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