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WHEREAS, known for its hospitality and loving nature, Emanuel United Methodist Church was established in 1875 ,and will be holding its final service to the community and families that have been part of the congregation for several generations, on Sunday, April 30, 2017; and,
WHEREAS, the church was originally located at 137 Chestnut Street, currently Steuben Street ,and moved to 217 Steuben Street in 1882 and built its current location at 825 Lorenz Avenue in 1912; and,
WHEREAS, over the past 142 years, the church has gone through several name changes due to mergers including, Lorenz Avenue Evangelical United Brethren Church, West Pittsburgh Mission of the Pittsburgh Conference, Lorenz Avenue Church Evangelical Association, Lorenz Avenue United Methodist Church and finally, Emanuel United Methodist Church ; and,
WHEREAS, music has always been a strong ministry of the congregation, dating back to the early 1900’s, music ministries have included: Orchestras, Hand Bell Choir, Choirs, Cantatas, Cabarets and Creative Arts Renewal Effort (C.A.R.E.) Program; and,
WHEREAS, the Preschool, which started out as a Mom’s group, expanded into an Afterschool and Summer Camp program and ran for 30 years. In addition the congregation organizes Vacation Bible School and many other children’s activities with the help of neighborhood partners and other local churches. The church was also home to the West End Works Employment Center for several years; and,
WHEREAS, Emanuel United Methodist Church held its last Easter Sunrise service at the West End Overlook on April 16, but hopes to continue those services after their merge with Calvary United Methodist Church; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend the work of Emanuel United Methodist Church and its service to the community; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Sunday, April 30, 2017 to be “Emanuel United Methodist Church Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.