Pittsburgh Diocese Sacrifices Churches to Modernist Pragmatism
The EWTN News portal reports (February 11, 2026) that the “Diocese of Pittsburgh,” led by “Bishop” Mark A. Eckman, will permanently close seven churches on March 12, citing financial strain and declining Mass attendance. The affected parishes—Good Shepherd, Madonna del Castello, Sacred Heart, St. Anselm, St. Colman, St. John Fisher, and St. Jude the Apostle—were consolidated under St. Joseph the Worker Parish in 2020. Eckman claims the closures followed a yearlong “consultation” with clergy and laity, framing the decision as a “season of pruning” for “new life.” St. Maurice Church in Forest Hills will remain the sole worship site.






