A summer tradition returns to the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown.
The faithful are invited to outdoor Masses every Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the Our Lady of the Alleghenies Shrine in Loretto, adjacent to the Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel.
Masses are celebrated from the Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend (May 24) to the Sunday of Labor Day Weekend (September 6).
Please bring a lawn chair. In the event of inclement weather, Mass will be celebrated in the Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Shrine.
Special outdoor Masses this year include:
- June 14 – Brother Lawrence (Caleb) Hogue, FHS, a native son of the Basilica who was recently ordained a transitional deacon and is preparing for the priesthood, returns and will serve as guest homilist.
- July 12 – Loggia Night – an evening for Catholic men (ages 18-up) to enjoy fraternity and conversation with diocesan priests on the loggia (porch) of the Basilica. Father Michael Pleva, Pastor of Saint Joseph Parish in Bellwood and Saint Matthew Parish in Tyrone, will be the celebrant and homilist at the Mass.
- July 19 – The annual outdoor Mass for married couples, celebrated by Bishop Mark. All husbands and wives are invited to renew their sacramental commitment during the Mass.
- August 2 – The annual outdoor Mass for students entering or returning to college and their families, celebrated by Bishop Mark. Recent high school graduates entering the military or workforce are also invited.
The historic Prince Gallitzin Chapel House, next to the Our Lady of the Alleghenies Shrine, will be open on the following Sunday afternoons from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. for self-guided tours, pilgrimages and visits:
- June 14 and 28
- July 19
- August 2, 16, and 30Â
