BATH, PA [DOEPA]

On Thursday, September 11, 2025, the Diocesan Council held its regular quarterly meeting at the Diocesan Chancery in Bath, PA. His Eminence Archbishop Mark presided over the session.

Archbishop Mark began with a reflection on the purpose of parish and diocesan councils, asking the question, “Why are we here?” He reminded the council that the ultimate answer must be, “To be the Church,” and urged members to conduct all work in that spirit. His remarks touched on discipleship, the need to avoid shaping God in our own image, and the importance of viewing secular concerns through the life of the Church.

His Eminence also provided updates on seminarians, noting that Reader Jacob Kurtz will attend St. Tikhon’s Theological Seminary this fall, while Reader Alexander Korapsak and Nicholas Sheridan will study at St. Vladimir’s Theological Seminary. 

Archbishop Mark spoke about the success of the 2025 St. Tikhon’s Summer Camp, reporting strong participation and enthusiasm from both campers and staff. Plans are underway to expand diocesan youth ministry, with special attention given to supporting college students and building long-term engagement. His Eminence further highlighted clergy compensation guidelines, emphasizing that parishes must distinguish between compensation and benefits, and encouraged clergy to grow in financial literacy and retirement preparation.

Following the Archbishop’s address, Archpriest Innocent Neal, Dean of the Wilkes-Barre Deanery and Rector of Holy Trinity Church in Wilkes-Barre, PA, provided an update on the closure and demolition of the former Holy Resurrection Cathedral, including preparations for utility disconnection and investigation of relics in the cornerstone.

Archpriest Martin Browne, Chancellor of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania and Rector of St. Mark’s Church in Wrightstown, PA, reported on clergy formation and upcoming educational programs, and introduced a proposed seminarian financial support policy, co-authored with Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki, Vice-Chancellor of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, Dean of the Frackville Deanery, and Rector of Holy Apostles Church in Mechanicsburg, PA. Father Timothy also gave a brief report on diocesan activities and parish stewardship efforts.

Mr. Mark Linnehan, Diocesan Treasurer, noted that the diocese remains financially stable despite cathedral closure costs, and reported on approved fund reallocations and support for diocesan programs, including the Heavenly Host initiative.

Deanery reports highlighted general stability, with particular attention to ongoing parish needs in Philadelphia and Stroudsburg. St. Tikhon’s Camp was praised for a successful 2025 season, and the Diocesan Media Office encouraged continued parish submissions for diocesan communications.

The meeting concluded at 4:01 PM with the singing of “It is Truly Meet.” The next Diocesan Council meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2025.

Photo credit: Mr. John Buckeye

Glory to God for all things!

Issued by the Diocesan Media Office