Latest merger to affect three local parishes

By KRISTIE LINDEN

klinden@yourmvi.com

In a move that has become increasingly more common in recent years, the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh has announced another large set of mergers that will take place in January, affecting three Mon Valley churches.

The parishes of Saint Mark in Liberty Borough and Port Vue, Saint Michael in Elizabeth and Queen of the Rosary in Glassport will merge to become Saints Joachim and Anne Parish Jan. 4.

The three churches are among 40 that will merge into 14 new parishes as announced by Bishop David Zubik.

“For two years, you have journeyed together on a road that is intended to unite you on the mission to bring the Good News of Jesus to your neighbors and to strengthen all of you in faith,” Zubik said. 

In a letter to parishioners Zubik wrote, “This has not been a simple task. Jesus never promised that it would be easy to carry his message of love and mercy to others. He was clear that sacrifice would be necessary. However, you are positioning your new parish for more effective ministry by addressing financial needs, sharing resources and allowing your clergy to focus on the spiritual work for which they were ordained. With your faith in Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit, I invite you to warmly welcome and serve each other as you become one parish family.”

According to a release from Zubik’s office, each merger was requested by the priest-administrator of the grouping after extensive consultation with parishioners. Zubik consulted with and received consent from the diocesan Priest Council and Vicars General before approving each request.

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