PERRYMAN, Md. (AP) — The Episcopal Diocese of Maryland says it’s suspending worship services at the state’s oldest Episcopal parish.

The Baltimore Sun reported Friday that services will end at St. George’s Episcopal Church near Perryman at the end of the year.

The parish has been in continuous operation since 1671. It is also known as St. George’s Spesutia parish, due to its location on Spesutia Road and its historical connection to nearby Spesutia Island.

Bishop Eugene Taylor Sutton cites dwindling attendance and declining income from the collection plate.

Parish member Victoria Davis says 25 to 30 people attend church services.

St. George’s is one of 10 Episcopal parishes in Harford County.
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