Ministries and Organizations
Altar Server
Serve on the altar for weekday and Sunday Masses, holy days, and other special liturgical events in the church. All boys and girls in grade 4 and above are eligible to serve Mass, and are encouraged to consider this important ministry in our church worship. Periodically, new altar servers are trained in proper style and conduct.
Altar Server Committee
On a rotating basis, committee members make reminder calls to servers for the week.
Bereavement Committee
The members of this committee assist families in planning funeral liturgies. They lead prayer services at the funeral home the day before funerals, attend funeral liturgies, and mail condolence cards to members of the parish who have lost a loved one and coordinate an annual memorial Mass with a small reception.
Bereavement - Resurrection Choir
The Resurrection Choir is a group of faithful volunteers who support the bereaved by singing at parish funeral liturgies. This choir is open to anyone who wishes to minister in a most pastoral way to those who are grieving. No rehearsal required.
Blood Bank
Two annual drives provide an opportunity for parishioners to contribute blood to the Central Blood Bank of Pittsburgh. The Blood Bank is set up in Benedict Hall in January and mid-summer.
Building and Grounds Committee
Advises the Pastor in maintaining the building and grounds of the Parish. The committee meets at the discretion of the Pastor.
Children's Liturgy Committee
Provides both opportunity and atmosphere for our young children, pre-school through grade 3, to grow and to become rooted in the Sacred Liturgy of the Roman Catholic tradition. Members of this group lead the children in song, proclaim the readings and prepare interactive reflections for the children. Children's Liturgy is the second and fourth Sunday of the month (September-April) during the 9:30am Mass.
Counters
Assist in counting and preparing the weekly collections for deposit at the bank.
Early Learning Center (ELC)
The ELC is an extended care facility for preschoolers 3-5 years old. It offers a social educational and spiritual environment where young children can express their individuality and creativity through appropriate activities and experiences. Children of all faiths are welcome. Hours of operation are 8a.m. to 6p.m. Monday through Friday from September to May. The Center is located on the second floor of the O'Shea Center. Check out there website for more information. CLICK HERE
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist
Eucharistic Ministers share their faith by distribution of the Eucharist of Sundays and Holy Days. They also take the Eucharist to individuals at the Baptist Home and homebound members of our parish.
Faith Formation
The message of Jesus Christ and His Church is offered to the whole community with age appropriate methods. Through a mix of formal and informal settings our community can learn about the love of God through His Word and Sacraments so all can share that love with one another. Faith Formation includes the preparation for Sacraments for all ages, Family and Faith dinners and activities, formal Faith Formation Programs for grades K through 8, Vacation Bible School and Adult spiritual and educational opportunities. Topics and ties are advertised in the bulletin and in annoucements during Mass. For more information check out their website. CLICK HERE
Faith Formation-CCD
Children in our community come together to learn with each other the Word of God, to participate in the Sacramental life of the Church and to better understand the prayers and traditions of the Catholic Faith. Classes for children in grades K-6th grade are held in an inviting and friendly classroom setting. Classes meet Monday afternoons and Wednesday evenings.
Faith Formation-Junior High and High School-Youth Ministry
St. Winifred is a "youth friendly" community that welcomes young people, values their participation and calls forth their gifts. Actively supporting positive youth development and fostering healthy values and life skills are priorities. Youth Ministry recognizes the opportunity to connect young people with the faith communities and calls them to the challenge of discipleship. The faith, gifts, energy, and fresh ideas of young people are encouraged, embraced and welcomed.
High School students meet twice a month on Sundays in the youth room located on the 3rd floor of the O'Shea Center. Youth Ministry encompasses spiritual, service and social events with lots of fun! Check out their website for more information and a complete schedule. CLICK HERE
Junior High has two parts. The first being the Faith Formation classes held twice a month on Sundays from 6:30pm-8:00pm. Classes begin with a gather segment, in Benedict Hall, that literally jumps starts the evening. This is a 2-year cycle in which our teens will receive all diocesan required topics in the time span before Confirmation. The second part if Service and Social. The youth will have the opportunity to do service activity and/or social activity once a month. Check out the website for more information and a complete schedule of activities. CLICK HERE
Family Life
Sponsors family centered events throughout the year. Events are advertised in the bulletin and are open to all. To become active in the planning of Family Life events, please contact the Rectory.
Finance Council
Advises the Pastor and Parish Council on financial matters. The Council is established and governed by Diocesan policy. Members are appointed by the Pastor. The council meets approximately every 6 weeks except during the summer.
Fish Fry Committee
The members of this committee organizes the very popular Fish Fry held during Lent. The fish fry begins on Ash Wednesday and continues every Friday evening during the Lenten season. It is a very social gathering with children's activities and a chance to meet and greet friends and neighbors in the war, welcoming atmosphere of Benedict Hall.
Food Pantry
The St. Winifred Food Pantry is funded and operated by a coalition of eight churches; St. Anne, St. Bernard, St. Germaine, St. John Capistran, St. Louise de Marillac, St. Norbert, St. Thomas More, and St. Winifred. It survives primarily through donations and food drives by members of these churches and the generosity of numerous Protestant churches and organizations through the local communities. The Food Pantry is open Wednesday and Saturday 10am-11am. Food delivered to shut-ins on Saturdays. A 24-hour answering machine service is available (412)343-1915
Garden Committee
An informal group of individuals who maintain the garden spaces on the parish grounds. Individuals who enjoy planting and gardening are welcome to lend a hand with this beautiful ministry.
Girl Scouts - Brownies Troops 1157
Formed in February 2006, Brownie troop 1157 meets bi-weekly in the Education Building, St. Winifred Church. Brownie troop 1157 is part of the Girl Scouts of America. Brownies Girl Scouts are 1st through 3rd grade girls who experience many learning and growth opportunities in crafts, outdoors activities, leadership, travel, and community service. For more information about Brownie Troop 1157, contact Kathy Howard 412-571-2226
Lectors
The Lectors are a diverse group of parishioners ranging from high school students to the retired. Lectors read during the Liturgy of the Word at Mass as well as various other litugies including the Stations of the Cross during Lent. While many lectors have experience with public speaking prior to becoming a lector, others develop their natural abilities with this ministry.
Men's Club
This group offers men a variety of opportunities to serve the parish and to participate in the social functions of its members. The primary activities of the club is to provide ushers for the Masses and other services in the church. The men meet in the O'Shea Center on the second Wednesday of the month at 8:00p.m. and a social follows.
Morning Prayer
Every Tuesday morning at 7:00a.m. all women of the parish are welcome and every Thursday morning at 6:30a.m. all men are invited to pray morning prayer. We meet in the O'Shea Chapel. Please come and join us in prayer.
Music Ministry
Recognizing that vibrant music in Catholic Liturgy is vital to a vibrant worship experience, St. Winifred Parish is blessed with many volunteers who dedicated their time and talent to this mission. Our Music Ministry is comprised of several choirs, with each group supporting the "song of the assembly", providing special music leadership, when needed, and offering instrumental or choral music that reflects the meditative prayer of a particular Sunday or season. For further information and discussion on any area of music ministry, please contact Parish Director of Music, Dianne Falvo. Check out their website for more information. CLICK HERE
Music Ministry - Youth Choir
Youth Choir is a seasonal choir that ministers at special liturgies, such as Christmas Eve, First Communion, Mother's Day and Father's Day. Presently, the group rehearses on Wednesdays, 5:50p.m. to 6:15p.m. in the Hrico Room. Membership Grades 2-6
Music Ministry - Contemporary Group
Ministering at the 5:00p.m. Mass on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, this group includes piano, keyboard, guitar, flute and choir but always welcomes other interested players and singers. Their repertoire is primarily contemporary Catholic and Christian Music. Membership: High School and older. Rehearsal: 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month 7:00 to 8:30p.m. in the church and one hour before Mass.
Music Ministry - Instrumentalists
Various instrumentalists or groups of instrumentalists are formed and used at special liturgies through the year. Examples would be trumpets, brass quartet, flutes, flute trio, saxophone, percussion, and strings. Players must be Middle School age or older. Rehearsals are schedules on an "as needed" basis.
Music Ministry - KD Ringers
KD Ringers is a seasonal teen bell choir. They minister for special liturgies through the year. While being able to read music isn't a requirement for this group, it is very helpful since the bell music played is beyond a beginner level. Membership: Middle School and High School. Rehearsal: Sunday 12:30-2:00p.m. in the Hrico Room.
Music Ministry - Traditional Choir
Ministers every Sunday at te 9:30a.m. Mass, September through May, as well as for Christmas, Holy Week and special occasions. Their wide range of repertoire includes classical and traditional choral anthems as well as gospel and contemporary pieces. Membership: High School and older. Rehearsal: Thursday 7:00-9:00p.m. in the Hrico Room
Pastoral Council
Works with the Pastor in carrying out the mission of the parish, to provide opportunities for the community to participate in liturgy and prayer, to offer a variety of educational experiences for all ages; and to encourage and support the various service programs. With prayer and discernment, the members of the Pastoral Council are appointed by the Pastor.
Rite of Christian Initiation For Adults (RCIA)
RCIA is a program for our Catholic Church community to introduce new members to the Church. It is an ongoing invitation to come, explore and learn about the teaching of Jesus and His Church. A parish team leads the weekly meeting of the candidates. No commitment to become Roman Catholic is required to those who participate. Rather, each person is encouraged to seek with the other participants and the team the truth of Jesus Christ and His Church with open mind and heart.
Safe Environment Program
To help all who come to St. Winifred Parish know they are at a place of safety and peace. All staff and adult volunteers comply with the Catholic Conference of American Bishops directives in ensuring a safe environment. Through an educational workshop and clearances, we can assure our community and neighborhood we are doing all we can to be a safe and welcoming place. Check out the website for more information. CLICK HERE.
Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS)
An association of lay persons who live according to the spirit of the Order of Discalced Carmelities, but who do not leave their secular state of life. The Carmelites vocation is to live in the world, "an evangelical life of fraternal communion instilling with the spirit of contemplative prayer and apostolic zeal according to the example and teaching of the Carmelites saints" especially Saint Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, and Therese of Lisieux. The members meets on the first Sunday of each month in the O'Shea Center following the 9:30a.m. Mass. All those who feel called to live the spirituality of Carmel are most welcome.
Small Faith Groups
Gather in a small groups on the parish campus or in individual homes to discuss faith topics. Meeting times and readings vary with each group. For information on joining an existing group; or for guidance in establishing a New Small Faith Group, call the Rectory.
Small Faith Group - Friday Morning
Praises and thanks God in song, prayer nad teaching of His Word. Meets every Friday morning from 9:45-11:00a.m. in the O'Shea Center. Everyone is welcome.
Small Faith group- Thursday Evening
This Bible group gathers for prayer-filled sharing of God's word among Catholic laity. This group uses the Collegiate Bible Study series to help in the understanding of scripture in the Roman Catholic tradition. All are invited to experience this sharing of scripture. This group meets Thursday evening in the O'Shea Center at 7:00p.m.
St. Vincent DePaul Society
Seeks out the poor and deprived who are in need of spiritual, financial and/or emotional support. A personal visit is made to each needy individual or family, and help is provided whenever possible. Follow-up contact is maintained. The St. Vincent DePaul Society meets on a weekly basis.
Ultreya
Ultreya is a meeting of friendship groups and those who have made Curcillo weekend. A regular meeting is composed of group reunion and the witness talks in a structured format describing how Christ is working in their lives. the conversation links these people together in a visible Curcillo community. The Ultreya encompasses all parishes in the South Hills. Ultreya meets bi-monthly in the Hrico room.
Women's Guild
The Guild is a service group for the women of the parish. The Women's Guild provides religious, educational, cultural and fundraising activities consistent with the spirit of Catholic action. The three major fundraisers are: Soup sale in January, The Junque Sale the weekend after Easter, and the Craft Sale in October. The women meet on scheduled Tuesday evening in Benedict Hall at 7:30p.m.
Vocation
Offering our parish family the opportunity to pray, talk and ask questions about our faith and our role in the Church, this group meets once a month in the O'Shea Center Chapel. Information will be provided in the bulletin and on a bulletin boards as to upcoming events with the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Vocations are the source of our future ministers of the Church.
Wedding Committee
Assist the bride and groom and their families on the day of the wedding
Worship Committee
The role of the committee is to discuss and advise the Pastor on issue that impact the worship life of the parish. The committee is made up of representatives of the Exraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist, the Music Ministry and Youth Ministry, the seasonal decorations group, Children Liturgy and the Lector as well as several ad hoc members. The committee meets quarterly throughout the year.
With all the above listed activities, as St. Winifred Parish we comply with the Catholic Conference of American Bishop's policies to ensure a Safe Environment.
