An online art auction featuring paintings of local Catholic churches — including some in the Midvalley and Upvalley — will benefit the Diocese of Scranton’s various ministries.

The auction, hosted by the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Scranton, includes more than 20 works painted and donated by artist, philanthropist and longtime community leader Austin Burke, an Archbald resident. The auction is underway through May 1.

The proceeds will benefit the foundation’s “Founders Fund,” which support the diocese’s long-term pastoral, educational and service ministries. This is the first year the foundation is hosting the auction.

Burke, a former president of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, is a member of Christ the King in Archbald, one of many churches he’s depicted in 25 years of painting.

In addition to donating some of his collection, Burke painted more churches for the auction at the request of foundation Executive Director Mark DiPippa. Burke spent the past year painting church buildings in northeast and northcentral Pennsylvania.

The paintings up for auction include Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Mayfield, Sacred Heart of Mary Church in Jermyn, St. Mary of Czestochowa Church and St. Mary of Vilna Church in Eynon, St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church in Dunmore, St. Rose of Lima Church in Carbondale, St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Archbald and Marian Chapel at Marywood University.

A preview of several paintings was displayed during a bishop’s reception earlier this year.

Bids for the auction can be placed through the Diocese of Scranton website, dioceseofscranton.org, and the Catholic Foundation website, catholicfoundationscranton.org. To see a complete gallery of the available artwork, visit the auction website.

The winner of each piece of artwork will be invited to a reception at the Cathedral Rectory with Bishop Joseph C. Bambera in May. Burke will also do a painting of a church of the highest bidder’s choice.

At a glance

What: Online auction of over 20 paintings of local churches by Austin Burke to benefit the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Scranton.

When: Through May 1

How to place bids: Visit the Diocese of Scranton website, dioceseofscranton.org, and the Catholic Foundation website, catholicfoundationscranton.org. To see a complete gallery of the available artwork, visit the auction website.