By CatholicPhilly Staff • Posted June 5, 2025

Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of Bishop David A. Zubik of Pittsburgh, who turned 75 in September, the Holy See announced June 4 at 6 a.m. local time. In the same announcement, the pope appointed Auxiliary Bishop Mark A. Eckman as the 13th Bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

Bishop-designate Eckman, 66, who has served as auxiliary bishop since 2022 and is widely recognized for his pastoral leadership and administrative skill, will be installed during a special Mass on Monday, July 14, at St. Paul Cathedral, the Mother Church of the Pittsburgh diocese.

In Philadelphia, Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez said that the bishop-designate “has great pastoral care for souls and well-honed administrative ability” in a statement issued June 5.

The archbishop added, “The people of God in western Pennsylvania are receiving a true gift from the Holy Father in the person of their new shepherd.”

In the neighboring Greensburg Diocese, Bishop Larry J. Kulick said that Bishop-designate Eckman’s “dedication to serve in the mission of Christ will make him a wonderful and spirit filled shepherd” for the faithful.

In a message to clergy and staff, Bishop Zubik voiced his strong support of Bishop-designate Eckman, emphasizing his deep familiarity with the diocese and praising him as an “exceptional pastor and outstanding administrator,” according to a news release from the diocese. He expressed both gratitude and excitement over the appointment, calling the bishop-designate an “exemplary priest.”

Bishop-designate Eckman, a native of Pittsburgh, said, “I accept this appointment and ask for the prayers of all the faithful. Together, we will continue the mission of Jesus Christ with hope.”

Founded in 1843, the Diocese of Pittsburgh is home to over 600,000 Catholics from six counties in western Pennsylvania.