A church in Norwalk that has been a pillar of the community for nearly 150 years is set to close its doors for good.

The sign outside the East Avenue United Methodist Church reminds folks that its Sunday worship is at 10 a.m. every week, but this weekend will be its final one.

Members of the church, which opened in 1871, say declining attendance and the cost of maintaining the aging building has just become too great. To deal with that, the church is joining with the Norwalk United Methodist Church on July 1 to create the Cornerstone Community Church.

Parishioners say that while they're excited for the next chapter, this Sunday will still be an emotional day.