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ONONDAGA COUNTY, N.Y. -- The Syracuse Catholic diocese auctioned off the rectory at St. Mary's Church in Jamesville Tuesday, despite an ongoing battle by former parishioners to have the church reopened.

St. Mary's was closed since 2007, but last year, the Vatican ruled that it must remain a sacred place. According to the diocese, that prevented them from auctioning off the building, but because it is no longer a parish, they were able to sell the rectory.

Tuesday's auction brought in just under $98,000. The diocese says only the rectory was sold, not any of the items inside.

The church will continue to be available for weddings, funerals and other special services.