A summer tradition is returning in Loretto.
Outdoor summer Masses will once again be celebrated at the Our Lady of the Alleghenies Shrine every Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. beginning on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, May 26, and continuing through the Sunday of Labor Day weekend, September 1.
The liturgies are sponsored by the Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel.
As always, faithful attending the Masses are asked to bring their own lawn chair, and in the event of inclement weather, the Mass will be celebrated inside the Basilica, adjacent to the Shrine. Â
Among the special outdoor summer Masses scheduled this summer at which Bishop Mark will preside are:
- June 9 at 7:00 p.m.
A special Mass in celebration of the national Eucharistic pilgrimage making its way through the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis. Prior to the Mass, Confessions will be heard beginning at 5:00 p.m. A Eucharistic procession and a witness talk from one of the national pilgrims will follow the Mass. - July 21 at 7:00 p.m.
The annual outdoor Mass for all married couples will be celebrated during which husbands and wives will have the opportunity to renew their sacramental commitment to each other. This liturgy always draws a huge and enthusiastic crowd from throughout the diocese. All married couples and their families are especially encouraged to attend. - August 4 at 7:00 p.m.
The annual outdoor Mass for young adults entering or returning to college, as well as recent high school graduates who are entering the military or workforce. This Mass will include a special blessing by the Bishop for the young people and a small gift to them.
A special outdoor Mass to welcome the four priests from India, all members of the religious community Heralds of the Good News, now serving in our diocese is also being planned at some point in the summer. Â
Once again this summer, the historic Prince Gallitzin Chapel House, located next to the Our Lady of the Alleghenies Shrine, will be open to the public for self-guided tours, pilgrimages, and visits on the following Sunday afternoons from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.:
  June 9, 16, and 30
  July 21
  August 4 and 18
The chapel house was the home of the Prince-Priest and Servant of God Demetrius Gallitzin. It now serves as a museum containing many of his personal belongings.
