The people of the family of God at Salem have a long history in this area
with a special emphasis on dedication, education, service, music, worship,
and the closeness of being a church family.
Our roots go back to 1844 when the now Dutilh and Salem congregations shared
a common origin. For twenty four years the congregation met in such
places as Jones' barn, Little Plains Church, and the home of Andrew English,
Jr. until in 1871 it was decided to build at the intersection of Pearce Mill
and Wexford-Gibsonia Roads. Completed in 1872, the congregation chose
the name Salem. In 1923 it was decided to relocate to the present site
on Manor Road in Wexford to be on the trolley line which aided church
growth. The move required dedication as some of the members mortgaged
their farms in faith to support the new building which was dedicated May 17,
1925. Major improvements to the building have included the
installation of our pipe organ, the addition of the educational wing in
1957-1958 which allowed us to expand our service to the community, the
building of our new sanctuary, dedicated in April 1984, and the 1986
completion of our new office area. These physical improvements are a
symbol of the power of a spirit governed body of people who now as in the
past are empowered to demonstrate dedication, education, service, music,
worship and fellowship.
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS ABOUT SALEM—
Other Questions? Email them to
salemchurch@salem-umc.org
What makes Salem unique?
Salem is a dynamic congregation with specialized
ministries such as the Olive Branch gift shop, which sells handcrafted
items made in developing countries. All proceeds go to mission. We
have a "Jazz & Java" coffeehouse event once every two months that
features jazz music, inspirational messages and coffee produced by a
farmer's cooperative in Nicaragua. There are extensive programs for
children and youth, including preschool, Sunday School, Children's
Church, youth group and special events for elementary age children.
What is our theology?
We are a Christ centered church that stands squarely
in the United Methodist theological tradition. Our worship and
teachings biblically based. Members of the congregation are strong in
their convictions, but are open and willing to listen to differing
opinions. Members have personal beliefs that span the theological
spectrum.
What are the services like?
Sunday morning worship is at 9:30 a.m. The service
is generally traditional with a touch of the contemporary. The service
features a large pipe organ, chancel and bell choirs, a children's
message and prayer time. The sacrament of Holy Communion is celebrated
monthly. Quality preaching is important at Salem.
Will I be singled out in any way as a visitor?
Although you will be welcomed as a guest, you will
not be asked to stand and identify yourself as a visitor. We pass
attendance sheets, on which you may share your name, address and phone
number if you like. You are invited to stay for coffee following the
service. Someone will be happy to speak to you about the church and
give you a tour.
Where will my kids go during the service?
We have a nursery on the second floor of the
education building for infants and toddlers. Youngsters, preschool
through 3rd grade, may leave after the children's message and go to the
chapel for Children's Church, which is a worship service designed for
children. You may go with them if you like.
Are there opportunities for small group study and
fellowship?
Yes! Sunday School for children, youth and adults
meets after worship and coffee at 10:45 a.m. The pastor offers a Monday
night Bible study fall to spring. There is a monthly noon luncheon;
everyone is welcome.
What are some of the mission programs?
In addition to the Olive Branch and the Nicaraguan
Coffee ministry, we have many ways for you to participate in mission.
We support local missions such as Operation Safety Net, which helps
street persons in Pittsburgh, as well as international missions such as
Africa University. We have taken work teams to help rehabilitate homes
on the North Side of Pittsburgh through the Pittsburgh Project. (Link
to Olive Branch and Missions page)
Is there a youth ministry program?
Yes. There are regularly scheduled events with
different leaders. There is a balance between programs that emphasize
learning and service. (link to Youth page).
Why might Salem be right for me?
Salem is a church that will provide you with the
opportunity to experience God in Jesus Christ through worship, study,
mission work and ministry with children and youth. If you are looking
for a church that has biblically based services, quality sacred music
and preaching, extensive mission and children's programs, then Salem may
be right for you and your family.
Other Questions? Email them to
salemchurch@salem-umc.org
