Rejoicing with our neighbors

     Yesterday saw the fulfillment of a vision for one of our neighboring parishes, the completion of a sanctuary renovation that has been in the works for a long time.  That parish is Saint Agnes Church here in North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania.  The present church was built around 1980, and although there are some who lament the passing of the light oak laminate wooden altar and furnishings and the undersized crucifix (what we are used to is hard to let go of), there was need to update and beautify the surroundings, and to provide a more substantial and quality altar, ambo, font and furnishings.

     The parish, with the leadership of my classmate and their pastor, Monsignor Paul Fitzmaurice, contracted with New Guild Studio out of Braddock, Pennsylvania, to do the design and the work.  They have done a number of churches in our diocese, and I admire their work.

     The work has finally been done, and yesterday Bishop Edward Malesic of the Greensburg Diocese celebrated their 11:00 am l blessed the altar and sanctuary.  From what I hear, it was a beautiful and memorable event, with the bishop bringing his wonderful personal touch to such long ceremonies.  I have included a few pictures of the sanctuary and of the dedication for your viewing.



     My congratulations to the priests and people of Saint Agnes Parish on this milestone event, and to all of us ... a reminder that refreshment and renewal is part of the dynamic of spiritual journey, and can lead to our giving greater honor and glory to God.