Saturday is far from a new beginning, but for some parishioners in Forestville they are hoping it is not the end.

St. Rose of Lima Church will be opening at noon Saturday to celebrate Feast Day of St. Rose of Lima. In doing so, it is inviting residents to attend the event that will be followed by a chicken and potluck luncheon at 11 Center St.

A group of residents is hoping that more services will be coming in the future as a group is keeping up a fight with the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo to keep the shuttered location open. “We are trying to save our church,” said Theresa “Tammy” Green of Silver Creek, who is the procurator for the location. “We have already been closed but through the work of prayer and the Vatican have been given the opportunity to hold on while the Diocese is renewing itself and figuring out the Road to Renewal.”

Green, along with Aimee Rodgers of Forestville, are heading up the battle to keep the church in operation.

In April, The Buffalo News reported St. Rose of Lima had heard from the Vatican acknowledging a request from parishioners to intervene and reverse Bishop Michael Fisher’s decision to close the location.

Though Green has yet to hear back from the Vatican, it is a slice of hope. That right now is enough to keep the faith — and celebrate Saturday with an important day in the site’s service to the community.