JOHNSTOWN, Pa. -- WJAC-TV News spoke with several Catholics in Cambria City Thursday as they prepared for this weekend's Ethnic Fest. While people said they're excited about the celebration, they anticipate an undertone of sadness, as up to five churches are set to lose their individuality.

"Everyone is bringing something special they want to offer to ethnic festival," said Monsignor Raymond Balta of St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Church.

St. Mary's is one of about a dozen churches participating in Ethnic Fest. While the church isn't being considered for consolidation, Balta is sensitive to the issue.

"With the up and coming consolidation, I think everyone is trying to put their best foot forward, and everyone is trying to prepare their specialties," added Balta.

Across the street at St. Casimir and Emerich, many parishioners were preparing for their traditional fish fry. Annette Sinosky -- who was baptized and married at the church -- said it will likely be consolidated, making this year that much more special.

"It's probably the last festival we'll be doing as a singular parish. Next year, we'll all try and work together," said Sinosky.

"Everyone says 'closing,' but it's a consolidation, too," said Balta. "And there might be a stronger parish to come out of this."

WJAC-TV News spoke with the Altoona-Johnstown Catholic diocese Thursday morning. Spokesman Rob Egan said while no final decisions have been made about which parish will remain as the main worship site, the decision becomes clearer with every monthly meeting.

Ethnic Fest begins Friday afternoon and runs through Sunday in the Cambria City section of Johnstown in Cambria County.