The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh is set to welcome a new leader following the resignation of Bishop David Zubik, who hit the age ceiling for his role. Pope Leo XIV gave his nod to Zubik's retirement at 6 a.m. today, a move announced by the Diocese. Zubik, who served the diocese for nearly 18 years, reached the mandatory retirement age of 75 last September. His legacy is remembered warmly on the Diocese's website, as reported by WPXI, stating, "His example of holiness has inspired us to fall deeper in love with the Lord and to better serve Him in our brothers and sisters."
In Zubik's stead, Auxiliary Bishop Mark A. Eckman is appointed as the diocese's 13th bishop, as revealed by CBS News. Eckman, who has been serving as an auxiliary bishop since 2022, is set to officially take the reins on Monday, July 14, during a special Mass at Saint Paul Cathedral in Oakland. "With a grateful and humble heart, I accept this appointment and ask for the prayers of all the faithful," Eckman expressed, outlining his intention to forge ahead with the mission of Jesus Christ imbued with hope.
Zubik and Eckman made a joint public appearance, during which the retiring bishop extended his full support to Eckman. "I am both grateful and thrilled with this appointment," Zubik wrote in a letter to the diocese's clergy and staff. Eckman, a local from Bethel Park, has spent over a decade in the diocesan central administration and anticipates focusing part of his efforts on engaging the youth, which he sees as both the church's present and future. "On our end, we have to formulate and help develop their faith," he told CBS News.
Zubik, however, is not planning a sedentary retirement. Despite stepping down from the helm, he aims to remain active within the community, particularly through outreach initiatives associated with Catholic Charities. The diocese looks forward to the new chapter of leadership with hope, continuing the mission rooted in their faith tradition.
