St. Ignatius Loyola Church

Nestled in the heart of Reading, PA, St. Ignatius Loyola Church is more than just a Catholic parish—it’s a welcoming spiritual home for families, students, and individuals from every walk of life. Rooted in authentic Catholic tradition, our church offers daily Mass, sacraments, and a robust calendar of events designed to nourish faith and foster fellowship. Whether you’re a lifelong parishioner or visiting for the first time, you’ll discover a place where devotion meets community and every heart finds a warm embrace.

A Warm and Inclusive Parish Community

At St. Ignatius Loyola, visitors frequently speak of the genuine sense of belonging they experience from the moment they arrive. Parishioners describe the atmosphere as “always welcoming,” with smiling ushers, open arms, and a spirit of inclusivity that transcends backgrounds. From young families to retirees, everyone finds a circle of friends and mentors who pray together, break bread together, and offer support in times of need. This nurturing environment is the cornerstone of our identity—a living testament to Christ’s love at work among us.

Worship & Liturgy that Uplifts

Our liturgies are crafted to be both beautiful and spiritually enriching. Many attendees praise the “wonderful sermon” and “authentic Catholic identity” woven throughout each Mass. Crisp Gregorian chant, reverent prayer, and heartfelt homilies help parishioners connect more deeply with the mysteries of faith. While most visitors find the spoken word clear and inspiring, a few have shared difficulty hearing certain announcements or parts of the homily—feedback the parish is addressing by evaluating sound and delivery enhancements to ensure every message resonates loudly and clearly.

Lovely Facilities & Ample Parking

Ease of access is a hallmark of our parish campus. With a generously sized parking lot, arriving on time for Mass—or departing for an evening event—is hassle-free. Parents juggling young children, seniors with mobility concerns, and weekend commuters alike appreciate the convenience of well-lit parking spaces just steps away from our main entrance. Inside, the church interior captivates with its soaring arches, stained-glass windows, and thoughtfully restored artwork—creating a worship setting that is both serene and inspiring.

Community Outreach & Youth Programs

St. Ignatius Loyola Church extends its mission beyond weekly services through dynamic outreach and enrichment programs. Our affiliated St. Ignatius Loyola School garners enthusiastic praise—“My daughter loves it here!”—for its strong academic foundation and faith-centered curriculum. Youth groups, sacrament preparation classes, and family catechesis bring young hearts into a deeper relationship with Christ. The parish also hosts recovery and support gatherings, including addiction awareness events that “show genuine involvement and compassion” for those walking the road to healing. These initiatives exemplify our commitment to serve Reading—and to embody a faith that transforms lives.

Leadership: Father Bortz & Our Clergy

At the pastoral helm is Father Bortz, whose down-to-earth style and caring presence have earned him the affectionate praise, “Father Bortz is the best.” Under his guidance, pastoral care balances deep theology with genuine warmth. While most interactions shine with respect and kindness, the parish acknowledges an isolated report of a parishioner feeling overlooked during a blessing. That occasion has spurred renewed sensitivity training and dialogue to ensure every family—regardless of background—is met with mercy and hospitality. Our dedicated team of deacons and lay ministers also works tirelessly to welcome newcomers, visit the sick, and share Christ’s compassion in practical ways.

Plan Your Visit & Connect with Us

Whether you seek a vibrant worship experience, a supportive faith community, or opportunities to serve those in need, St. Ignatius Loyola Church invites you with open doors and open hearts. Join us for Sunday Mass at 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, or 6:00 PM; participate in weekday devotions; or explore our calendar of parish events. You’ll find parking is abundant, volunteers are attentive, and every detail reflects our desire to glorify God and uplift souls. Come and discover why so many in Reading call St. Ignatius Loyola Church their spiritual home—where faith flourishes, friendships form, and lives are lovingly transformed. We look forward to welcoming you!