In celebration of the life and legacy of Pope Francis, Bishop Mark L. Bartchak will celebrate a Memorial Mass for the Holy Father at noon on April 28 at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona. Faithful from throughout the diocese are invited to join the bishop and other clergy at the Mass to pray for the soul of Pope Francis, who died on April 21.

“The Catholic Church is a universal family, and the Pope was the head of that family,” stated Tony DeGol, diocesan director of communications. “His passing has affected us all, and we mourn the loss as a family. Bishop Bartchak looks forward to uniting with part of that family at this upcoming Mass to recall Pope Francis’ humble service and lasting mark on the church.”

Various parishes are also planning Memorial Masses for Francis. All parishes are invited to notify Bartchak of their schedules, which will be shared on the diocese’s Proclaim! E-News site, and on the diocesan website and Facebook page. The information will be updated as parishes share their details.