Christian Leaders Fellowship to Hold Prayer Service at the Pittsburgh Crèche

November 17, 2023

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 Friday, November 17 at noon in the plaza in front of US Steel Tower on Grant Street, Downtown.

“On this 25th anniversary of displaying the crèche, our fervent prayer is that it inspires visitors to let the love of Christ enter their hearts, bringing healing and hope and love of God and neighbor,” said Bishop David Zubik, 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: Right Reverend Alex Cameron, Anglican Diocese of Pittsburgh; Reverend Linda Miller-Pretz, Penn West Conference of the United Church of Christ; Reverend Dr. Reneé Mikell, Western Pennsylvania Conference, The United Methodist Church; Most Reverend William C. Skurla, Metropolitan Archeparchy of Pittsburgh; Most Reverend Ketlen Solak, The Episcopal Church, U.S.A.; Pastor Melissa Stoller, Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; His Eminence Savas, Metropolis of Pittsburgh, Greek Orthodox Church; Most Reverend David A. Zubik, Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.

In addition, many individuals, as well as business, labor and religious organizations have contributed financial support and services. The crèche is truly a community effort.

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.

"Now in its 25th year, the Pittsburgh Crèche seems to come alive though the hearts and minds, through the love and faith of those who visit it. Miracles happen,” said Monsignor Ronald Lengwin, a priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.

The crèche will remain open for viewing 24 hours daily through January 7, 2024. 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.