Major League Baseball

PNC Park doubles as a church for some athletes

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 1:47 p.m. ET

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The vast majority of people know PNC Park as a baseball stadium, home to Major League Baseball's Pittsburgh Pirates.

However, earlier this week PNC Park served home to a different gathering of people -- it became a church.

It is not uncommon for athletes to pray or read the bible before games, but as the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review points out, the Pirates not only pray, but rather have a full mass.

"There was no holy water, decorated altar nor burning incense, but it was every bit a church service for those like [Pirates second baseman Neil] Walker, who would not otherwise have the chance to attend Mass because of game-day commitments.

Although Walker was the only player in attendance Saturday, he often is joined by members of the visiting team, he said."

Religion is a big part of the lives of many athletes' and Walker appreciates the efforts the priests make to say Mass at PNC Park.

"The three priests we have here are tremendous with their time and efforts, and we can't ask for much more," Walker said. "Father Thomas is such a big part of our family, so any time we get a chance to bring family or friends down and invite them to Mass, it's fun."

As it turns out, Walker is from from the only player that enjoys the experience as several stadiums also partake in providing religious services.

"PNC Park is one of 23 Major League Baseball stadiums that provide a weekend Mass through the assistance of an organization called Catholic Athletes for Christ (CAC), which began in 2006 after Pope John Paul II issued a call to evangelize the world of sports."

(h/t Pittsburgh Tribune-Review)

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