Christian Leaders Fellowship to hold prayer service at the Pittsburgh Crèche

PITTSBURGH -- The Christian Leaders Fellowship, an ecumenical group of local bishops and denominational leaders, will lead a prayer service at the annual dedication of the Pittsburgh Crèche, on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at noon in the plaza in front of US Steel Tower on Grant Street, Downtown.

“It is a special blessing to dedicate the crèche this year on the feast day of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and celebrate her role in the miracle of Christmas. We pray fervently that all visitors will be filled with hope, joy and love of neighbor and carry it with them throughout the coming year,” said Bishop David Zubik, Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.

Erica Gamerro, director of the Diocesan Department for Liturgy and Worship and episcopal master of ceremonies for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, will MC the event.

Participants in the prayer service include: Canon Bill Henry, Anglican Diocese of Pittsburgh; Reverend David Ackerman, Penn West Conference of the United Church of Christ; Reverend Alyce Weaver Dunn, Western Pennsylvania Conference, The United Methodist Church; Most Reverend William C. Skurla, Metropolitan Archeparchy of Pittsburgh; Bishop Ketlen Solak, The Episcopal Church, U.S.A.; Reverend Brian Evans, Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Majors Joyce and Greg Hartshorn (Salvation Army); Reverend Ralph Lowe, Pittsburgh Presbytery; Reverend Liddy Barlow, Executive Minister, Christian Associates of Southwest PA; Most Reverend David A. Zubik, Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.

“Many individuals, as well as business, labor and religious organizations have contributed financial support and services. A number have been involved since the first time the creche was erected. I am honored to be joining this great community effort,” said Charles Goetz, Chief Facilities Officer, Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.

Clothing for the figures has been designed, sewn and maintained by two local communities of religious women – Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth and Sisters of the Holy Spirit. A group of volunteers has joined the sisters in preparing the clothing and dressing the figures for the annual display.

The crèche will remain open for viewing 24 hours daily through January 7, 2025. There is a designated place for donations at the crèche to secure its continued display in years to come. Donors may also send tax-deductible gifts designated to The Pittsburgh Crèche Fund in care of The Pittsburgh Foundation at Five PPG Place, Suite 250, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.