We are so blessed in West Virginia to be celebrating 175 years as a diocese!
Throughout the year until the closing of our celebrations – July 19, 2026 – we will feature a variety of feature articles showcasing our story.
This issue of FaithInWV presents a snapshot looking back on our… Journey of Faith and PerseveranceOn July 19, 1850, the Diocese of Wheeling was established by Pope Pius IX, marking the adventurous beginning of our present Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston.
Let us give praise and honor to God for our Almost Heaven WV and the confidence of all who serve the Church. From our pioneering founding bishop, Bishop Richard V. Whelan, to our present shepherd, Bishop Mark E. Brennan, our diocese has persevered to share the Gospel by word and deed in our families, parishes, schools, hospitals, and organizations.
The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston’s clergy, religious, laity, and staff strive to exemplify the resilience, faith, and courage of our ancestors. The hard-working souls who built the Church in these mountains.Watch for these stories published in The Catholic Spirit, shared in the FaithInWV e-bulletin, and posted here on our diocesan social media.
May God bless us one and all!
