By Matthew Peaslee

What started as a home-based formation program recently emerged into in-person meetings at a Catholic parish in the South Hills.

At recently merged Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish, promoting the faith to young people has been a key tenant over the past year and a half. The parish, made up of St. Clare of Assisi Church in Clairton, St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Pleasant Hills, Holy Spirit Church in West Mifflin and St. Thomas A Becket Church in Jefferson Hills, started a program to encourage family fellowship back in March 2020. It was a way to strengthen families at home while churches were closed and visiting friends and neighbors was discouraged.

The First United Methodist Church, located at 200 State Street in Belle Vernon, will hold a Blue Christmas Service on Wednesday, December 22 at 6:00 p.m.  For many, Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, but for many who have lost loved ones, it is a time of sorrow.  Join us as we remember the promises of God, to be with us always, even in our time of need and despair.

Christmas is a time of many traditions - glowing candles, gifts, meals and so much more!  Amid your holiday preparations, we want to invite you to reflect on the true meaning of the season at Crossroads Ministries in Finleyville.  You will experience familiar Christmas music, a message that is relevant and sure to be illuminating, and a moment of “Peace on Earth” as we enjoy a Candlelight Christmas Eve together.

By Matthew Peaslee

A local Catholic pastor has been appointed to one of the highest roles within the Diocese of Pittsburgh. The Rev. Mark Eckman, currently pastor of Resurrection Parish in Bethel Park/Upper St. Clair, will become an auxiliary bishop for the diocese.   His new role will begin on Jan. 11, 2022.