Bishop David Zubik announced today that two parishes will merge on July 1, 2023 to create one new parish.
In a letter to parishioners, Bishop Zubik wrote, “Your priests and deacons have worked diligently in service to you and to God throughout this process, and I am deeply grateful for their care and leadership. I am equally grateful to each of you for your collaborative efforts. In and through your work together you have positioned your new parish to be a beacon of evangelization and mission in Butler County. I pray that that the newly formed Saint Mark the Evangelist Parish will continue to give witness to the Good News of Jesus and grow in blessings and strength through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
The new parish is:
· Saint Mark the Evangelist Parish (Adams/Cranberry/Glade Mills), which brings together the parishes of Holy Sepulcher (Glade Mills) and Saint Kilian (Adams/Cranberry Township). The parish will be served by Father Charles S. Bober (Pastor), Father David C. Schmidt (Parochial Vicar), Father Dennis M. Buranosky (In Residence), Father Robert F. Guay (In Residence), Deacon Ralph W. Bachner and Deacon Douglas K. Nelson.
This merger was requested by the pastor, Father Bober, after extensive consultation with parishioners. Bishop Zubik consulted with the diocesan Priest Council and Vicars General before approving the request.
The merger is part of the ongoing effort designed to help parishes mobilize their resources to prioritize mission over maintenance. Its goal is to help Catholics have a deeper relationship with Jesus, his Church and empower them to reach out to others with His love and mercy.
The merger of July 1, 2023 will bring the number of parishes in the Diocese of Pittsburgh from 62 to 61.
Read Bishop Zubik's Letter to the Faithful: July 2023 Parish Merger.