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WHEREAS In 1889, the first National Congress of Black Catholics convened Congress in Washington, DC. Fr. Patrick McDermott of the Holy Ghost Order was inspired by this movement, and he encouraged his superior to establish a Black mission in Pittsburgh, in order to end racism; and
WHEREAS Holy Ghost College, presently known as Duquesne University, established St. Benedict the Moor Parish on July 20, 1889. The parish's vision was continuously focused on serving Black Catholics encompassing a full range of struggles and triumphs; and
WHEREAS today, St. Benedict the Moor parish is a merger of four parishes, which include the former Saint Brigid, Holy Trinity, and Saint Richard churches that have worked together to develop a community of people who share many values, goals, and responsibilities and are dedicated to the development of the church; and
WHEREAS the goals of St. Benedict the Moor's ministries include building the community through fellowship, inculcating the Gospel into the community, and supporting the needs of the community through advocacy and outreach; and
WHEREAS the church's commitment to the community extends beyond its ministry, serving over 100 needy families twice a month with their Food Pantry program, helping people with disabilities be able to access all parish facilities and ministries, helping immigrants to Pittsburgh with a healthy resettlement, helping the community with health education and screenings, and much more.
WHEREAS the church will celebrate its 120th anniversary on Sunday, July 26th.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize St. Benedict the Moor Church on its 120th anniversary for its unwavering dedication to the Hill District community; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Sunday, July 26, 2009, to be "Saint Benedict the Moor Church Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.