Diocese of Pittsburgh News

I wish to renew my support for local and national Jewish leaders who have been alarmed by the rising incidence of anti-Semitism and the threat of a “Day of Hate” against Jews. I wholeheartedly agree with Jonathan Greenblatt, national director for the Anti-Defamation League, when he said today, “It is completely unacceptable that the Jewish community—or any community—should be targeted by extremists spreading hate and alarm

Out of pastoral consideration, Bishop David Zubik has decided to dispense the faithful of the Diocese of Pittsburgh from the obligation to abstain from meat on Friday, March 17, 2023, the memorial of Saint Patrick

While I mourn every death from gun violence, it is a terrible shock when the victim is a brother bishop, auxiliary Bishop David G. O’Connell of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Bishop O’Connell epitomized all that Pope Francis calls priests and bishops to be.

The loss of a courageous and committed public servant such as Officer Sean Sluganski breaks our hearts and weakens the whole community.  As a participant in Officer Sean’s funeral, I was inspired by his mom and family and moved by the dedication of his sister and brother officers.

Two McKeesport police officers were shot, one fatally, in an incident in McKeesport this afternoon. A Holy Hour and Prayer Service will be held for the two officers and for the community at 7 p.m. this evening, February 6, 2023 at Saint Patrick Church, 310 32nd Street, McKeesport, PA. 15132.

For all pro-life advocates, this is an important day as thousands and thousands gather in Washington D.C. to stand up for life. While there are significant differences of opinions in our world on right to life and many others, we should never let those differences lead us to disrespect each other.

“This is a time to show our commitment to protecting unborn children, to supporting women with crisis pregnancies and families who struggle to raise children in difficult circumstances,” Bishop Zubik said.

As a graduate of Central Catholic High School, and the University of Pittsburgh, Damar is part of our family. We, as a Catholic community offer prayers for his recovery, and for God’s comfort to fill the hearts of all of those who are praying for him, and awaiting updates on his condition.

In this very young new year, violence has already had a sobering impact on our hopes for greater peace in 2023. The tragic death of Brackenridge Police Chief Justin McIntyre and the wounding of his fellow officer remind us of the dedication of law enforcement who put their lives on the line to provide for our safety.

Pope Benedict taught us much during his papacy, but the most enduring lessons may be of humility and fraternity. His historic decision to resign when he could no longer fulfill his duties to the best of his ability demonstrates his love for our Lord and our Church. The way that he has lived quietly, in a brotherly friendship with his successor, Pope Francis, is a model for all Catholics to follow as we continue to journey together in service to Jesus and His Church.