Bishop Mark Bartchak joins Catholics around the world in expressing his deep sadness following the passing of Pope Francis and remembering the Holy Father’s loving example of faithfulness, service, and humility. Bishop Bartchak is calling on the faithful of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown to join him in praying for the Holy Father’s eternal rest.
The Bishop issued the following statement after learning of Pope Francis’ passing.
“Even in the face of death, we hold fast to the hope that Jesus gives us through the resurrection. Pope Francis made it very clear to everyone that our focus should be on that hope, which is found only in Christ.”
Pope Francis was elected Pope in March, 2013. Since then, Bishop Bartchak has had the opportunity to meet Pope Francis three times, the first being in July 2013 during a Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown pilgrimage to Rome.
