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Waltham Church Closes After Nearly 200 Years

WALTHAM (CBS) -- A Waltham church is closing its doors after nearly 200 years.

Christmas music filled the air Sunday during the last prayer service at Trinity Church. Founded in 1820, the non-denominational Christian church is closing due to dwindling attendance and financial concerns.

Rev. Allen Batchelder wiped away tears as he presided over his final service in the large white stone building.

"I am very emotional and all of us are," he said. "Nobody wants to close the church but unfortunately in some cases it's a sign of the times."

One worshiper said Trinity is a constant in his week.

"Now it's gone," he said. "It leaves a hole in your life."

Betsy Bailey was baptized at Trinity and also married there 39 years ago as of Saturday.

"I'm just devastated, my roots run very deep here," Bailey said. "I feel very empty right now."

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Kim Tunnicliffe reports:

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