Eckman named new bishop for Pittsburgh Diocese
Courtesy of the Diocese of Pittsburgh
A new bishop has been named for the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
The Holy See announced Wednesday that Pope Leo XIV appointed Auxiliary Bishop Mark A. Eckman as the diocese’s 13th bishop. Eckman will replace Bishop David A. Zubik, whose resignation was accepted by the pontiff. Zubik reached the mandatory retirement age of 75 in September. Zubik was installed as bishop in 2003.
Eckman will be installed July 14 during a special Mass at St. Paul Cathedral in Oakland.
“I am both grateful and thrilled with this appointment,” Zubik wrote in a letter to diocesan clergy and staff. “Bishop Eckman knows the diocese. And we know him as an exceptional pastor, and outstanding administrator – truly an exemplary priest.”
Eckman has served the diocese as an auxiliary bishop since 2022 and as a longtime parish priest.
“With a grateful and humble heart, I accept this appointment and ask for the prayers of all the faithful,” Eckman said. “Together, we will continue the mission of Jesus Christ with hope.”
Bishop Larry J. Kulick of the Diocese of Greensburg expressed joy with Eckman’s appointment.
“I am delighted to congratulate and offer my sincere prayers to Bishop-designate Mark A Eckman,” Kulick said. “I have had the wonderful experience of knowing and working with Bishop Eckman, both as a priest and as Bishop of Greensburg. His dedication to serve in the mission of Christ will make him a wonderful and spirit-filled shepherd for the faithful of our neighboring diocese.”