St John's Parish Hall

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church is a Roman Catholic parish in New Baltimore, Pennsylvania, centered on rural community life and stewardship. The church, managed by Capuchin friars since its founding, offers daily Masses and a restored retreat center with accommodations for spiritual retreats. Services include weekday Masses at 8:00 AM, weekend Masses at 6:00 PM and 8:00/10:30 AM, and sacramental opportunities like Confession and Baptism. The retreat center, built in 1890, provides 27 bedrooms and accessible facilities for visitors seeking prayer and renewal.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church is a Roman Catholic parish located in New Baltimore, Pennsylvania, centered on rural community life and stewardship. The church is managed by the Capuchin friars of the St. Augustine Province, continuing a legacy of religious leadership since its founding. The mission emphasizes living as entrusted stewards, using God’s gifts responsibly to bring about His kingdom. The parish offers a range of services, including weekday Masses at 8:00 AM, weekend Masses at 6:00 PM (Saturday) and 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM (Sunday), as well as sacramental opportunities like Confession and Baptism. The church also hosts Adoration and Night Prayer on the first Friday of each month.

The parish’s retreat center, built in 1890 as a Carmelite Novitiate, has been fully restored and provides a unique setting for spiritual retreats. The center features 27 bedrooms, 8 private bathrooms, and accessible facilities for the physically challenged. The dining room, with handmade oak tables and chairs, comfortably seats 48 people, and meals are prepared by parish women with an emphasis on homemade simplicity. The retreat center also includes four conference rooms and a small private chapel, making it suitable for various-sized retreats and spiritual gatherings.

The church and retreat center are staffed by Capuchin friars, and the parish is led by Pastor Fr. Mark Pattock, OFMcap, with Fr. Stephen Shin, OFMcap, also in residence. The church is known for its warm, welcoming community, and visitors have praised the convenience and quality of volunteer support. The church’s website provides detailed information on Mass schedules, sacraments, and retreat availability, making it easy for newcomers to plan their visit and participate in the parish’s spiritual life.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in New Baltimore, PA, offers a welcoming rural parish experience rooted in stewardship and spiritual renewal. First-time visitors may appreciate the Capuchin friars’ leadership, clearly posted Mass times, and a restored 1890s retreat center with accessible accommodations. The community emphasizes simplicity and hospitality, with volunteers noted for their helpful support.

Pros

• Clearly posted weekday and weekend Mass schedules with multiple Sunday options
• Accessible facilities and accommodations for visitors with physical challenges
• Restored historic retreat center featuring private bedrooms, conference rooms, and a chapel
• Capuchin friar leadership with a focus on rural stewardship and spiritual simplicity
• Detailed website with retreat availability, sacrament details, and contact information
• Positive visitor feedback highlights volunteer support and convenient services