MESSAGE FROM BISHOP MARK regarding hurricane relief efforts in our diocese.

October 10, 2024

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In recent days, our brothers and sisters in the southeastern part of the United States have endured devastation from Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. We here in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown stand in solidarity with those individuals and families. I invite the local faithful to join me in praying for them and asking the Lord to give them strength and healing in the challenging days ahead. In a special way, we also remember those who have lost their lives and those who mourn them.

As we see the suffering of the storm victims on the news, I think I speak for everyone in expressing a great desire to help in some way. Therefore, I am asking all parishes in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown to take a special collection to benefit hurricane victims. All contributions to this special collection would be tax deductible. Parishes should forward the proceeds to the diocese, and I will see that those monies are forwarded to agencies such as Catholic Charities USA, which will ensure that the funds are used to help the recovery efforts. At this time, there is no need for items such as food, clothing, or toiletries to be sent to the southern states.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus reminds us that what we do for the least among us, we do for Him. In that spirit, I ask that local parishioners please be generous in the upcoming special collections, and I encourage everyone keep all those affected by the hurricanes in their thoughts and prayers. May the Lord bless them and those on the front lines who are working hard to provide aid and comfort.   

Sincerely,

Most Rev. Mark L. Bartchak

Bishop of Altoona-Johnstown

Please remember to bring your Special Collection Envelope this weekend for those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

RESPECT FOR LIFE: During the month of October, we are asking parishioners to collect money and NEW baby items to be given to ELM and Precious Life. Items needed include: diapers, sleepers, blankets, onesies, etc. Please place donated items in the baskets by the exits. If you have any questions, call Stella Genesi at 742-9127.

PRAYERS and BEST WISHES to the following young people of our parish who will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation on Tuesday, April 2, at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona: Zachary Gonzales, Jalynn Partner & Gracie Rice. Please pray for these young adults that they may continue to grow in their relationship with Jesus and become the persons God intends them to be.

On Sunday, April 7, at the 9:00 a.m. Mass, Nancy Bolinda will be coming into full communion with the Catholic Church.

Sincere congratulations and welcome to these newest members of our parish family. Please make sure you take time to congratulate them and show them our love and support as we journey together into the Kingdom of God.

WELCOME FATHER MICHAEL – Saint Joseph Parish Welcomes you, Father Michael. We look forward to having you Pastor our Parish for many years to come. Trust that we will be here to help and support you with whatever you need. We are very grateful to have a priest to celebrate the Mass with us each weekend. God’s hand of blessing be upon you.

Fr. Michael Pleva attended Gannon University and St. Mark Seminary in Erie, PA from 2013-2017. He attended St. Vincent Seminary in Latrobe from 2017-2021 and was ordained a priest on May 29, 2021. He comes to us after serving in State College and Philipsburg. Fr. Michael is excited to walk with us on this journey towards eternal life. His goal is to serve well. He asks for many prayers as he begins his new assignments!