The future of landmark Saint Ann's Church remains a mystery today after it was ordered closed by Bishop Edward Kmiec yesterday for safety reasons.
An engineering report found major problems in the building's limestone structure which has been damaged by years of air pollution.
Due to declining numbers, Saint Ann's is no longer an independent congregation, instead it's part of nearby Saint Columba and Brigid Parish.
"They don't have the resources and there's not an expectation they would be able to pay for the significant repairs that will be needed at the church," Diocesan spokesman Kevin Keenan said.
"The Diocese would have a major involvement in any work that's done at that church."
A fence was recently installed around the Northwest tower to prevent stones from falling upon passersby.
Another engineering study examining repair costs will determine the future of St.Ann's, which opened in 1886.