Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 7)

The gothic structure sits high atop a hill within the limits of the city proper. Close by is a park, busy with the sound of children playing. This church is a jewel, yet undiscovered by many. It was established in 1900 following a petition put forward by many area residents looking for a closer church in which to worship and pray. The first Mass was celebrated in 1902, but before long, the "old church" was razed to make room for a new building, large enough to hold the growing congregation of the west end of the city. In 1925, worshiping Catholics entered the "new church" to find a larger and more accommodating worship space. The cornerstone for the school was laid and the first class held in 1955. Students were taught by the Sisters of Charity at Seton Hill. But because of declining enrollment it closed in 1973, sending students to an area regional school where they were taught by Divine Providence Sisters. On June 2, 2009, the last graduating class of just 13 students left the building which was slated to close its doors permanently that year. If you think you know the name of the church, contact Ginny in the rectory at (412) 264-6162 or vambrose@verizon.net.

Last week’s church was St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish (St. Luke Church), guessed correctly by Laura Marshall. The Seven-Church Pilgrimage will take place April 5 following the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 6:30 PM.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 6)

The church whose doors are pictured here was founded in 1867. After it was determined that there was significant Catholic growth in this area west of Pittsburgh, approval was given to establish a new parish. Eventually, the need for a larger worship space became first and forefront, and the congregation began the process of planning construction on a new building. But the decision did not come without its problems. Worshipers were conflicted about where the new church would be built and with an economic depression looming, the cost of the construction also became an issue. But before long, the cornerstone was laid in 1881 and the completed building was dedicated in June of 1883. Numerous renovations have since been made on the structure, the most recent rehab taking place because of flooding due to a hurricane. Although the school remains closed, the newly restored church is a beacon to this community and prayer–filled place of worship.

If you recognize these holy doors, submit your guess to Ginny Ambrose at the rectory at (412) 264-6162, or vambrose@verizon.net. Last week’s holy doors, belonging to St, Margaret in Greentree, were correctly guessed by Joe Orient. Make your reservations now for the Seven-Church Pilgrimage on Holy Thursday -- $5 per person. See the bulletin or web site for more information.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 5)

The next church in our Seven-Church
Pilgrimage on Holy Thursday

The modern red brick structure that houses these holy doors began as a humble frame building in 1930 that was converted into a church. In 1931, Bishop Hugh Boyle approved a mission parish to be built in the surrounding area and gave two brothers the privilege of naming the parish. Those brothers, considering this quite an important responsibility, chose a saint’s name for whom their own mother was named, and who played an important part in British and Scottish history. In November of 1952 a new school and church were dedicated and thegymnasium named for the first pastor of the parish, Fr. McDonough. The school remains open and educates close to 300 students each day. If you think you know the name of the church, please send your guesses to Ginny Ambrose at vambrose@verizon.net or (412) 264-6162 Ext. 24.

Ruth Platek correctly guessed the doors belonging to Ascension Parish in Ingram in the March 4 bulletin. And last week’s beautifully etched holy doors belong to SS Simon and Jude Parish in Scott Twp. Donna Marano-Ricci once again correctly guessed! The Seven-Church Pilgrimage takes place immediately following Mass on Holy Thursday, April 5.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 4)

The doors pictured above belong to the church which is the next stop on our Seven-Church Pilgrimage on Holy Thursday, April 5 following the 6:30 PM Mass. This church was erected and dedicated by Bishop Dearden in response to the growing population of Catholics in this area. Glass doors were installed in 2002. Each door contains an etched picture with a symbolic meaning. On the front doors are pictured two Apostles. At each entrance to the church are more doors such as these, depicting other aspects of the Faith. The church can now accommodate up to 1,000 people, as it was expanded from its original capacity of only 300. A new “tracker” organ was recently added. Tracker action is a term used in reference to pipe organs, indicating a mechanical linkage between keys or pedals pressed by the organist and the valve that allows air to flow into the pipes of the corresponding note.

Reservations are now being taken for this pilgrimage of faith. A donation of $5 is asked. You may drop an envelope marked “7 Church Pilgrimage” in the collection basket or mail to the rectory.

Seven-Church Pilgrimage: Holy Doors (Week 3)

Our third church on the pilgrimage

When you enter the church pictured below you are immediately struck by the simple beauty of the sanctuary. Wooden Stations of the Cross surround the large worship space, sharing the limelight with rectangular stained glass windows, which were designed in modern style. Traditional statues summon the visitor to quiet prayer and reverence.

This is the third stop on our Seven-Church Pilgrimage taking place on Holy Thursday following the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. Can you guess the church? Call in your answer to Ginny Ambrose at the rectory (412-264-6162 Ext. 24) or e-mail her.

The church pictured in last week’s article was Saint Philip Church in Crafton. Many called in to name the correct church. I guess there was no mistaking those holy doors!

In the front vestibule of Saint Joseph is a poster depicting the churches that we will be visiting. It’s time to call the rectory to reserve your place on the bus. Cost is $5 per person. Join us in prayer and song on this journey of faith.