Latin Mass
The tradition of the Latin Mass is still being kept alive
by active parishioners at St. Josephs 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. Its 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 Aldis
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.