Pennsylvania Pittsburgh Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

Pittsburgh's culture is a vibrant blend of Appalachian influences, industrial heritage, and modern innovation. The city's culinary scene is renowned for its local specialties like pierogies and Primanti Brothers sandwiches. Music and arts thrive in Pittsburgh, with venues like the Heinz Hall and the Andy Warhol Museum hosting performances and exhibits. The city also embraces its rich history with institutions like the Fort Pitt Museum. Historically, Pittsburgh has grown from an industrial powerhouse into a vibrant urban center, retaining its unique charm and cultural richness.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region features a mix of rolling hills, river valleys, and urban landscapes, with natural landmarks such as the Allegheny River and the nearby Monongahela River, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

CLIMATE

The climate is humid continental with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with average temperatures around 83°F, while winters are cold, averaging 28°F, with moderate snowfall. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken are English and Spanish.

RELIGIONS

Major religions in the region include Roman Catholicism, Presbyterianism, and Methodist.

INDUSTRIES

Healthcare: The region has a strong healthcare sector with major employers like UPMC excelling in medical services and patient care.

Education: Institutions like University of Pittsburgh lead in higher education and research.

Technology: The area supports a growing technology sector with companies like 48 Hour Film Project excelling in digital media and film production.

LOCAL EVENTS

The area hosts events like the Three Rivers Arts Festival, celebrating visual and performing arts; the ZooBoo at the Pittsburgh Zoo, featuring Halloween festivities; and the Light Up Night, marking the start of the holiday season with festive lights and activities.

TOURISM

Popular tourist destinations include the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, known for their extensive art and science exhibits; the Heinz History Center, featuring local history exhibits; and the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, offering beautiful landscapes and walking trails.

RECREATION

Favored activities include hiking, biking, and kayaking, with major parks like Schenley Park and Frick Park being popular destinations.

MISSION HISTORY

Two years prior to the organization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1830, Church President Joseph Smith moved to Harmony, Pennsylvania, and lived in the home of Isaac Hale, his father-in-law. After a few weeks, he moved to a cabin adjacent to the farm. In this cabin, Joseph Smith translated most of the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Christ, a companion scripture to the Bible. Joseph Smith and the first members of the Church were baptized in the Susquehanna River in May 1829. A total of 12 congregations were organized in Pennsylvania in the 1830s, prior to the gatherings of Saints to Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois. One prominent congregation in Philadelphia had more than 200 members before 1840 and 8 to 10 new members were baptized weekly. Philadelphia was the port of entry for many Latter-day Saint immigrants.

After a 10-year fund drive in Lancaster, one congregation in Pennsylvania purchased property and built a small meetinghouse in the 1850s.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

Pittsburgh Mission President Topham Group

Pittsburgh Mission President Summerhays Group

Pittsburgh Mission 1992-1995, Derrick Group

Pittsburgh PA Mission Facebook Group

Pittsburgh Mission (Holliday Years) Group

Pittsburgh Mission Moms (LDS) Group