Bishop Zubik to undergo 6th back surgery

Bishop David Zubik is scheduled to undergo his sixth back surgery, the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh said Sunday.

The bishop’s surgery will aim to address continuing problems with collapsing discs, the diocese said.

Zubik may require “extended time of recovery” after the operation, which will keep him from public appearances in the short term, the diocese said. He will still conduct diocesan business from his office at the Diocesan Pastoral Center.

The bishop has a history of back problems, diocesan officials said, but has “done well” recovering from prior surgeries.

He recovered from a spinal surgery last year with no complications.

Officials with the Diocese of Pittsburgh said Zubik’s upcoming surgery “is known to have good results.”

“Please remember me in your prayers, and especially my surgeon and all those who will be assisting him,” Zubik said in a statement. “I am looking forward to successful results so that I can be more steady on my feet in my service to all of our faithful.”