Ministries and Organizations
Adult Altar Servers
Adult altar servers - men and women - are needed to assist the priest during funeral Masses. Volunteers are called on a rotating basis; time commitment is minimal.
Altar Servers - Youth
Youth altar servers assist the priest on weekday evenings 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.
Counters
Assist in counting and preparing the weekly collections for deposit at the bank. Time committment is approximately two hours once a month on Monday morning.
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 Catechesis and activities, Vacation Bible School and adult spiritual and educational opportunities. Topics and times are advertised in the bulletin and in announcements during Mass. For more information, check out the website. CLICK HERE
Family Catechesis
This once a month program is geared for families with children in grades Kindergarten through 8th Grade. Families have a choice of either 9:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. on the first Sunday of the month to come to Benedict Hall as their children go to a grade appropriate classroom to discuss the topic of the month. Parents have the opportunity to find enrichment for their own faith life and support from the community as they share the values of the Catholic Faith with their children. Parents are given guided themes and stories of faith to help them discuss the Catholic Faith with their family during the month. There is also a Wednesday evening session at 6:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month to accommodate those who cannot make the Sunday session.
Faith Formation Team
The team purpose is to use our faith in the Holy Spirit and our talents to inspire and invite the parish to be challenged in our faith, to be educated in our faith and to grow in our faith.
Faith Formation-Junior High and S.W.A.T. Team
Saint Winifred is a great place for teens. Its various activities make it fun and relaxing environment for youth to celebrate in their faith.
S.W.A.T. (Saint Winifred Awesome Teens) Team They might not stop crimes or sharp shoot, but watch out when this group of activ e teens arrive! The Youth Group at St. Winifred decided to rename themselves to provide a more inviting sanctuary and that is what they are all about. The S.W.A.T. Team a diverse group of teens can be found in their gather space nown as the loft, located on the top floor of the O'Shea Center where they foster substantial values and lasting life skills. Sessions are held bi-weekly on Sundays and outings occur often. Each time they meet they encompass spiritual, service and social activities which all can enjoy. Teens in the parish are encouraged to come visit for a source of positive energy, enrichment in the Catholic Faith, a connection with peers, good food, and a great time. CLICK HERE
Junior High Faith Formation for 7th & 8th grade includes two parts. Junior High Faith Formation is a two year Confirmation preparation program with classes done in the Family Catechesis program. Students will gather in the O'Shea Center for a discussion on their age level. The second part includes engaging service projects as well as social events. A calendar of events will come out for each season. CLICK HERE
Youth Ushers
Youth in grades 7 - 12 are invited to help take up the second collection once a month when it is for the Youth Programs. The only time committment is the time you spend at Mass.
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 - Junior Troop
Junior Girl Scouts (4th & 5th grades) meets bi-weekly in the Education Building, St. Winifred Church. All girls experience many learning and growth opportunities in crafts, outdoor activities, leadership, travel, and community service. For more information about Junior Girl Scouts, contact Kathy Howard (412-571-2226), Maribeth Walsh (412-708-9430), or Hallie Leach (412-417-8748.
Hands of Love Ministry
The Saint Winifred Hands of Love Ministry is a group of knitters and crocheters who meet twice a month in the O'Shea Center to create chemo caps, prayer shawls, lap robes, baby hats and booties, and socks for those in need. No experience necessary, they are willing to teach anyone interested even if they have never knitted or crocheted before. Please call the Rectory for their current meeting schedule.
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.
Liturgical Life Committee
The role of this committee is to enhance the experience of Jesus Christ through our liturgical celebrations and to encourage spiritual growth as a faith family. The committee is comprised of the pastor and parishioners who wish to actively participate in the planning and spiritual development of the the liturgical life at Saint Winifred.
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 7:30a.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 - Christmas Children's Choir
Children in Grades 1-3 are invited to sing with the Youth Choir at the Christmas Eve Vigil Mass (4:30 p.m.). They rehearse three weeks prior to Christmas on Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. - 6:15 p.m. in the Hrico Room or in Church.
Music Ministry - Contemporary Group
Ministering at the 4:30p.m. Mass, 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: 7 - 8:30 pm Singers - 1st Wednesday of each month. Band - 2nd Wednesday of each month. The group practices 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 opportunities also exist for handbells and handchimes, which are used seasonally.
Music Ministry - Traditional Choir
Ministers every Sunday at te 10:30a.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
Along with the Pastor, the Parish Pastoral Council researches, reflects and recommends visions for the continued quality of the pastoral life of the parish. The Pastoral Council is a consultative structure in the parish designed primarily to investigate, consider and recommend pastoral initiatives to further the mission of the parish faith community as an extension of the Mission of Jesus.
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 8:30a.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. Call the Rectory for information on joining an existing group or for guidance in establishing a new Small Faith Group.
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.
St. Vincent DePaul Society
The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul provides short term emergency assistance on a case by case basis. Assistance is discreet and confidential and clients are treated with the utmost dignity. Anyone in need of help, who lives within the geographic boundaries of Saint Winifred Parish, may apply for assistance by calling the Rectory. The committee meets on a monthly basis or as needed.
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.
Ushers
The Ministry of Ushers is important to our parish as they welcome, assist and are present to help with the needs of those who come to our Eucharistic celebrations. The only time commitment for this ministry is presence at Mass where the ushers assist in critical tasks during the service.
Vocation Blessing Cup
The Vocation Blessing Cup is a wonderful instrument to help families pray for all vocations. Each weekend, during one of the Sunday Liturgies, the Cup is entrusted to a parish family for one week. They are asked to place the Cup in a prominent place in their home and pray for and foster vocations to the priesthood and religious life. In addition to the Cup and simple prayers, the family receives a journal and is asked to write words of encouragement and support to our parishhioner Patrick Caruso, who is studying for the Priesthood at the North American College in Rome. This journal will then be presented to Patrick upon his Ordination.
Wedding Committee
Assist the bride and groom and their families on the day of their wedding.
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.
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.
