The clergy and lay delegates attending the 136th convention of the Diocese of Pittsburgh Nov. 2 witnessed an unusual sight - a procession of homeless people and recovering addicts accompanied by the clergy of Shepherd's Heart Fellowship.

The diocese's newest congregation was formally recognized during convention held in Washington, Pa., Nov. 2-3.

Shepherd's Heart, a ministry for the homeless and addicted, began in the summer of 1993 as a missionary outpost without a parish home. The Rev. Mike Wurschmidt, then a seminarian at Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry, began walking the streets of Pittsburgh's Oakland district in search of the homeless and needy, bringing along food, coffee, blankets and clothing.

"As we continued to visit and pray with the homeless, they began asking about coming to a church service," Fr. Wurschmidt said. "We knew that many of our members would not be able to wake up in time for a traditional Sunday morning service, so God led us to begin Sunday night services."

With many feeding programs closed on Sundays, Shepherd's Heart decided to offer a hot meal following the service. The initial congregation of seven quickly grew, as word spread of a service being held in the evening, accessible to homeless and addicted that served a free meal after worship. Worship is informal, with Holy Eucharist being celebrated once a month.

"Many of our members have been addicts for so long that they can't process a lengthy sermon or liturgy. We sing contemporary worship songs and deliver a very simple message telling them of God's love and salvation in Jesus Christ," Fr. Wurschmidt explained.

In 1999, Shepherd's Heart moved to its current location, a former Roman Catholic church. With the growth of Shepherd's Heart has come the growth of the leadership team. Shepherd's Heart offers training opportunities in urban theology and ministry for both lay people and clergy.

In other news, the Rt. Rev. Robert W. Duncan, Bishop of Pittsburgh, and diocesan council proposed that congregations which, because of conscience, feel they cannot contribute to general operating expenses of the national Episcopal Church, should instead send their funds to Episcopal Relief and Development rather than unspecified missionary causes as has been the practice in the past. Contributing to ERD, Bishop Duncan said in his address, would enable the diocese to share more fully in a common national effort among Episcopalians.

A budget of $1.5 million for 2002 year was approved.

Ronda Carman