Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As we look toward 2026, we prepare to celebrate an extraordinary milestone – the 60th anniversary of The Catholic Witness, the official publication of the Diocese of Harrisburg. Since its founding in 1966, The Witness has faithfully served as a means of communication, connection, and evangelization across our 15 counties. Through its stories, generations of the faithful have shared in the life of our parishes, schools, and ministries and, most importantly, in our shared witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The founding staff of The Catholic Witness described their mission simply: “to be an organ of information, instruction, opinion, and service in the diocese… simply doing our job as witnesses.” That commitment, to bear witness to the Good News, remains at the heart of this publication today. While the format, style, and technology have changed over the decades, its purpose has not: to inspire, inform, and connect us as one Diocesan family in faith.
In this anniversary year, we will honor that legacy by launching a new chapter – The Catholic Witness Magazine. This quarterly, printed publication will allow us to tell the story of our Diocese in an even more vibrant and engaging way. Through in-depth articles, beautiful photography, and thoughtful reflections, the magazine will highlight how Christ is alive and at work in our parishes, schools, and communities.
The Church’s mission of evangelization calls each of us to proclaim Christ’s love and mercy in every age and circumstance. As we resume our print history in the form of a magazine, while continuing our digital news focus online, we do so to carry the spirit of our history forward – embracing new ways to share the same timeless message of faith.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to The Catholic Witness over these six decades – its editors, writers, photographers, readers, and supporters. Your dedication has ensured that our Diocesan publication continues to fulfill its mission of being a true witness to Christ in our world.
The first issue of The Catholic Witness Magazine will arrive in homes in mid-March, 2026. May this new beginning for The Catholic Witness Magazine deepen our unity as the Body of Christ and renew our commitment to living and sharing the Gospel each day.
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Timothy C. Senior
Bishop of Harrisburg
