Construction crews took to the roof of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Windthorst recently, where they replaced all the shingles and painted the cross, which is set more than 130 feet in the air.

According to Susan Rueb, President of Windthorst Heritage, her group is currently trying to raise funds to repair damage to the ceiling in the worship area.

"We were just denied a grant request," she explained. "We really want to get the interior fixed, so we are going to get that money somehow."

Although the 125-year-old church was closed as the result of a diocesan restructuring process in 1997, the structure still serves many church functions.

"We have community prayer services," Rueb said. "During Lent we have Stations of the Cross. We’re trying to have rosary services once per month for the community. We also have a concert series."

Several community organizations, including the Knights of Columbus and the Windthorst Cemetery Association, hold meetings in the basement of the church.

Although Masses are no longer celebrated at the church, Bishop Ronald Gilmore celebrated a special service there in celebration of the church’s 125-year anniversary.