One new, merged parish to be created January 2, 2023

Bishop David Zubik announced today that two parishes will merge on January 2, 2023 to create one new parish.

The new parish is:

• Saint Augustine Parish (Beaver Falls/Chippewa/Darlington/Midland), which brings together the parishes of Saint Blaise (Midland) and Saint Monica (Beaver Falls/Chippewa/Darlington).

This merger was requested by the priest-administrator of the grouping after extensive consultation with parishioners. Bishop Zubik consulted with the diocesan Priest Council and Vicars General before approving the request.

In a letter to parishioners, Bishop Zubik wrote, “Your priests and deacon have worked diligently in service to you and to God throughout this process, and I am deeply grateful for their care and leadership. I am equally grateful to each of you for your collaborative efforts. In and through your work together you have positioned your new parish to be a beacon of evangelization and mission in Beaver County. I pray that the newly formed Saint Augustine Parish will continue to give witness to the Good News of Jesus and grow in blessings and strength through the power of the Holy Spirit.”

The merger is part of the ongoing effort designed to help parishes mobilize their resources to prioritize mission over maintenance. Its goal is to help Catholics have a deeper relationship with Jesus and His Church and empower them to reach out to others with His love and mercy.

The merger of January 2, 2023 will bring the number of parishes in the Diocese of Pittsburgh from 63 to 62.