To meet the spiritual needs of the growing South Hills area in 1960, Most Reverend John Wright wanted to open a new parish and school that would serve the communities of Mount Lebanon, Castle Shannon and Baldwin.
While traveling in Wales the Most Reverend John Wright found himself at a small shrine honoring Saint Winifred. After many attempts the Boro of Mount Lebanon gave permission to the Diocese of Pittsburgh one permit to build the church, rector, convent and school in the area of Sunset Hills. On December 8, 1960 Reverend Benedict Erkins was named the pastor of the parish community of Saint Winifred's.
The Parish was named after the century virgin, Winifred (GWENDELYN). Reverend Benedict Erkins, the first pastor, celebrated the first Mass on December , 1960, in the South Cahtolic High School.
Until a church (and rectory) could be built, the parish continue to celebrate Masses at South Hills Catholic Catholic while weddings, funerals, and Baptisms were celebrated.
Throughout all of these years, Saint Winifred parish has grown into a strong, vital, faith-filled worshipping community. We continue to pray through the intercession of Saint Winifred that we will grow and prosper in remaining faithful to the mission of spreading the Good News of Jesus.
