Christ Church History

  Christ Church Indiana is a small, but vibrant Episcopal parish located in a university town about 60 miles outside of Pittsburgh. 

A Short History of Christ Episcopal Church

A small group of Anglicans (Episcopalians) began gathering regularly in 1831, where they met in the members’ homes, school houses and the courthouse. On 6 May 1852 Christ Church drew up its Articles of Incorporation. In 1853, the Reverend Mr. Nash and his wife arrived to lead worship; such was their success that the congregation decided to construct their own church building. The Honorable Thomas White, one of the first members of the church, purchased two lots along Philadelphia Street in 1854 and donated them to the congregation. Afterwards money was raised by subscription to pay for a church structure.  A year later the church was organized as part of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, and on 13 October the deed transferring the property to the congregation was executed. That day, the rector of the Greensburg Episcopal Church, the Reverend William Pattock, 

led a service consecrating the 

church building and grounds.

In 1893 the congregation determined that the church needed restoration. For that purpose they took out a mortgage on the property and raised funds while they completed the renovations over the next two years. On 1 December 1899, the congregation made the final payment on the loan. Ten days later a fire destroyed the building. By 1902 a new church was completed on the site and dedicated.

We pray that we, reaching forth our hands in love, may bring those who do not know God to the knowledge and love of Him. Thus, it is the purpose of Christ Church: to gather together for worship, Christian education, and fellowship; to develop and maintain a loving and caring Christian community; to scatter, going forth into the world in the power of the Spirit; and to witness to others Christ’s redeeming love, respecting the dignity of every human being 

  Gracious and loving God,

You know us better than we know ourselves. Guide the vestry and people of Christ Church through this time of transition and discernment. May Your Holy Spirit open our hearts and minds to new opportunities and ideas: so that we may follow where You lead – knowing that Jesus Christ walks with us each step of the way.

Empower us to use our gifts of ministry to the fullest; to share our thoughts openly and honestly; to listen deeply to You and to one another; and to encourage humility, patience, and joy.

Finally, instill in all of us a glorious vision of the future; that, guided by Your Holy Spirit, we may be united in love – with warm hearts, enlightened minds, and open arms – so that we may gladly accomplish the mission to which You are calling us; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.