After nearly a century, a Catholic school in Worcester has closed its doors.

Hundreds of alumni, teachers, and administrators took one last walk down memory lane at St. Stephen School Saturday.

In June it was announced the Pre-K through 8th grade school would close at the end of the school year. The school says the decision was made due to challenges like the coronavirus pandemic, declining enrollment, and financial difficulties.

Those we spoke to said while they are sad to see the school close, the day was one of thanks and reflection.

"We are filled with gratitude for the gift of the school, for the time that it was here. We are grateful for the alumni. Today is a day for them to share memories. For them to once again visit the school and perhaps see where it was where they learned, where they were formed by the sisters of St. Joseph and the many teachers and administrators that came through here," said Monsignor Robert Johnson of Saint Stephen Church.

Dan Foley, a member of the Class of 1967 said, “My own classmates, I know I expect to see a good number of them here today who responded very well, who made contributions and, you know, who couldn't wait to get here and walk down memory lane. I am looking forward and getting excited to see them. Some of them I probably haven't seen since we graduated from high school."

The school was established in 1924 and had a high school up until 1971.

The tour followed a mass and a fundraiser to raise money for the church’s bell tower which is in need of repair.

The city of Worcester is looking into leasing the property with plans to create a dual language school.