Message from Father Al

As I write this missive, I realize that I have entered a new and interesting world of the North Hills, and Wexford in particular. I had retired in July of 2020, and I was still trying to grasp a ‘retired’ mind set. I was still called upon from some of my former parishes for weekend masses, funerals, and confessions. People would say to me, “HOW’S RETIREMENT?” and I’d say back to them I don’t think that I have experienced it yet.

Then in early January I had a call from the clergy office of the Diocese asking if I would come out of retirement for a limited time, because there was a need. I took a little time to pray about it and realized that I would be able to help the new pastor and the people of the parish, and also I had sought to do the Lord’s will. So here I am.

For a priest, one never really totally retires as we are most likely willing to help at parishes and fill-in when needed. While I was pastor at Our Lady of Joy Parish in Holiday Park, Plum, I was assigned to be Administrator/ Moderator of a newly formed grouping of Monroeville, Penn Hills, and Pitcairn, of 6 churches into one parish and some 12,000 souls. That truly was an experience which took a lot of planning, searching my mind and heart, more grey and white hairs, and even more praying--- that part a good thing.

After not too long, of many discussions, and meetings and prayers, we as a clergy team and staff and Councils were able merge the churches into one parish, and the name chosen was CHRIST THE DIVINE SHEPHERD PARISH. At this time all 6 churches remain open. They are still growing in charity and in relationships with one another. I know eventually they will be fine, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Personally I like doing art work, especially painting when I HAVE TIME. I was reminded by someone who read a recent article of mine, that I like ‘THE BEATLES, BEETHOVEN, and BACH’. I enjoy the Steelers, Penguins, and yes for a long time, the Pirates. I hope that I can help in some ways while here, and I thank you ahead of time for your support and kindness which I have already experienced.

God bless you all,
Fr. Al Zapf+