Title
Proclamation congratulating St. Patrick Church upon the momentous occasion of its 200th anniversary.
Body
WHEREAS, 200 years ago, St. Patrick Parish was founded as the first Roman Catholic Church in the City of Pittsburgh; and
WHEREAS, predating the Diocese of Pittsburgh by 35 years, St. Patrick Church was first established by Father William Francis Xavier O'Brien and in August of 1811, was dedicated by Right Reverend Michael Egan, the first Bishop of Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, throughout its 200-year history, the Church has been rebuilt three times, twice due to a fire, the last of which struck on March 21, 1935; and
WHEREAS, on March 17, 1936, the present St. Patrick Church at 1711 Liberty Avenue was dedicated; and
WHEREAS, during the construction of the church, a piece of the Blarney Stone from Blarney Castle in Ireland was inserted into the unique conical Irish tower which sheltered the baptistery; and
WHEREAS, the rebuilding of St. Patrick Church also included a replica of the “Holy Stairs,” representing the 28 steps between Christ and Pilate, when Pilate condemned Jesus to death; and
WHEREAS, in addition to its unique architecture, St. Patrick has also been home to remarkable leaders, including Father James Renshaw Cox, who gained notoriety as a social activist and one-time presidential candidate with a passion for helping those affected by the Great Depression; and
WHEREAS, under the current leadership of Reverend Harry Nichols, St. Patrick Church continues to serve as a testament to the faith and will of Catholics throughout Western Pennsylvania;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Allegheny County Council hereby congratulates St. Patrick Church on the momentous occasion of its 200th anniversary in Allegheny County. Furthermore, we wish you continued success throughout your next 200 years.