Pittsburgh, PA — February 2026
The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh announced it will permanently close seven church buildings within St. Joseph the Worker Parish, effective March 12, citing financial constraints and declining Mass attendance.
Bishop Mark A. Eckman communicated the decision to parishioners during Masses on February 8, highlighting that the closures follow a thorough yearlong review of parish operations. The review included consultations with clergy, advisory councils, the facilities mission team, and parish senate sessions, along with input from parishioners through emails, meetings, and calls.
St. Joseph the Worker Parish was formed on July 1, 2020, through the merger of seven local parishes serving Braddock, Churchill, Forest Hills, Swissvale, Turtle Creek, Wilmerding, and surrounding areas. Initially, all eight church buildings remained active for worship. However, ongoing declines in attendance and financial challenges made sustaining all sites unfeasible.
The seven churches slated for closure are:
- Good Shepherd
- Madonna del Castello
- Sacred Heart
- St. Anselm
- St. Colman
- St. John Fisher
- St. Jude the Apostle
St. Maurice Church in Forest Hills will remain the parish’s sole active worship site.
Bishop Eckman acknowledged the emotional toll on parishioners, saying, “I recognize that this news brings a time of significant change and a sense of loss. For many years, you have poured your lives into these sacred buildings, strengthening your communities with holy faith, fervent prayer, and tireless service.”
He added a note of hope: “We are a people of the Resurrection. Even in seasons of pruning, there is promise for new life. This decision is made with prayerful intent to better resource your parish, ensuring that the corporal and spiritual works of mercy may continue to reach the hearts of Braddock, Churchill, Forest Hills, Swissville, Turtle Creek, and Wilmerding for generations to come.”
The closures reflect broader trends across the Diocese of Pittsburgh, which has undergone previous mergers and consolidations to address demographic shifts and financial pressures while sustaining parish ministries.