KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL)—For over 76 years, St. Mark United Methodist Church has served the Kingsport community. On Sunday afternoon, the congregation bid farewell to its building on Maple Street.

“It’s been an effort to just kind of honor the 76-year history of St. Mark,” said Jason Mullins, who has served as the pastor of St. Mark since 2022.

In April, St. Mark and Mafair United Methodist Church voted to merge, deciding to close St. Mark. Mary Watterson, Lay leader for St. Mark and now Mafair, said she was initially conflicted about the merger.

“[It’s] Bittersweet,” she said. “I didn’t want it to happen, but I know God is always in control and he’s making all things new.”

The sermon was provided by United Methodist Bishop James Swanson, whose connection to the church goes back decades. He said he has faith in the decision.

“I felt like, even though I had some sorrow, that it was going to work out,” he said. “That it was for the best, not only for St. Mark, but also Mafair.”

Members of both churches filled the pews, soaking in their last moments inside the church. Also in attendance were the living former pastors of St. Mark. The sanctuary was filled with singing and shared memories.

“To see all the people and to hear the stories and know that the doors were closing, that’s what made me emotional,” Watterson said.

Although the building will no longer be filled with a congregation, church leaders said the spirit of St. Mark United Methodist Church will forever live on.

“We’re taking the most important part with us, and that’s the people,” Mullins said. “And that is going to continue at Mafair.

Mullins will continue to serve at Mafair until July 1. Timothy Robinson will take over as the pastor of Mafair on July 1, as current pastor Adam Love transitions to his new appointment at Hixson United Methodist Church.