Bishop Issues Updated COVID-19 Directives
After consultation with the Deans, the Vicar General, and Public Health Advisors, Bishop Mark has issued the following update in response to the lifting...
Individuals Who Attended Mass at a Cambria County Parish Test Positive...
Three related people who recently attended Mass at a Cambria County parish have tested positive for COVID-19.
The individuals were present at the 10:00 a.m....
A Special Message from Bishop Mark
To Everyone in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown
Concerning New Liturgical Norms Issued by Pope Francis
July 20, 2021
On Friday, July 16, 2021, Pope Francis issued the...
Bishop Announces Clergy Appointments
The following clergy appointments and announcements by Bishop Mark Bartchak were released on June 27, 2025. All appointments are effective on July 23, 2025.
Reverend...
Two Priests in Quarantine; Masses Cancelled at Altoona Parish
Out of an abundance of caution, two priests at an Altoona parish have begun a 14 day quarantine after exposure to an individual who...
Parishes Announce Christmas Eve, Christmas Day Mass Schedules
By Justin Kirkland
Proclaim!
As Catholics, there is no better way to celebrate and experience God’s presence with us then in the Holy Sacrifice of the...
Individual Who Attended Mass at a Blair County Parish Tests Positive...
An individual who recently attended Mass at a Blair County parish has tested positive for COVID-19.
The person attended the 5:00 p.m. Mass on November...
Six Diocesan Priests Mark 60th Anniversary of Ordination
By Tony DeGol
Proclaim!
Six priests of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown are marking the 60th anniversary of their ordination this month.
Reverend Sylvester J. Bendzella, 86, is...
Priest Tests Positive for COVID-19; Masses Cancelled at Parish
A religious community priest in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown has tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, Masses at a Johnstown parish will not...
Great Joy at Ordination Despite Masks and Social Distancing
By Tony DeGol
Proclaim!
“Welcome to the new world order of ordination to the diaconate,” Bishop Mark said to a group of mask-wearing guests at the...
