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The tradition of the Latin Mass is still being kept alive by active parishioners at St. Joseph’s the Protector R.C. Chapel in Greensburg. Through the dedication and determination of a group of active Roman Catholics, this small chapel offers the Latin Mass on Sundays and holidays for those who wish to enjoy this type of mass that can trace its roots back to the very foundation of the Church in Rome.
Member John Maher is one member that has put a lot of heart and soul into the church. He described how he and his wife Dorothy ordered the church pews from Ebay, how others built the altar and the altar railing, and how they created the vestibule and a small dining area. Maher has been participating in this type of mass for over six years. Once the previous location closed in 2001, Maher and group of over twenty people decided to use their own funds to support and start a new church.
Leading the church is Father M. Gabriel Ward, FBA, who is a Franciscan monk. He travels over two hours each Sunday from Wooster, Ohio to give the mass in Latin. This is a skill that is hard to find. The members then have a dinner afterwards for anyone who wishes to stay. The Latin mass is quite different than the typical mass that is given at most churches. Booklets are available that have Latin on one side and the English translation on the other. The booklet also includes pictures to help people follow along what the priest is doing. The mass is about one hour in length. “It’s a very beautiful mass,” said Maher. “Quite breathtaking.”
All are welcome to attend the Latin mass on Sundays at 11:30 a.m. The chapel is located off of Route 30 in between Aldi’s and Westmoreland Mall at 928 St. Clair Way, not to be confused with other local establishments with a similar name. For more explicit directions call 724-853-8151 or 724-837-8253.
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