(CREDIT: Google Maps)

After 127 years of community ministry, Fourth Street United Methodist Church, 551 S. Fourth St. in Aurora, will close with a final worship service at 9 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 30.

The Rev. Derek Rodgers, pastor of Flowing Forth UMC of Aurora, will preside. Flowing Forth UMC was born in April in a merger of the former Fourth Street UMC and the former Flowing Grace UMC, Aurora. Flowing Forth UMC will continue to meet Sundays at Aurora Christian School.

(CREDIT: Google Maps)

The closing service will feature a Litany of Leaving in which Rogers will lead congregants.

Additionally, the service will include music, a reunion of former members and guests and a display of historical photos, memorabilia and other artifacts. A reception with light refreshments in the church fellowship hall will close the event.

The public is invited. Admission and parking are free. A freewill offering will be taken.

Former members, friends and others are invited to write memories of experiences at Fourth Street UMC. Contributed reflections will be included in a memorial book.

Contributions for the book should be emailed to fourthstumc@sbcglobal.net or sent by U.S. mail to 551 S. Fourth St., Aurora, IL  60505. The deadline is Tuesday, Sept. 25.

• FEATURE PHOTO CAPTION: After 127 years of community ministry, Fourth Street United Methodist Church., 551 S. Fourth St. in Aurora, will close with a final worship service at 9 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 30.  (Al Benson photo)