As Orthodox Christians, we strive to learn more about our faith and Jesus Christ. St. Alexander offers different ministries for all those interested in learning more.

Book Group Our Parish women join together to read selected spiritual books and share their thoughts and reactions. This interaction fosters intellectual and spiritual growth as well as a deeper understanding of our faith.

Adult Education Our weekly adult education classes feature discussion of the Orthodox faith.

Youth Education Our youth (ages 3 through high school) meet on Sundays during the school year. Our goal is to prepare our children to go out into the world with an understanding of the beliefs and ministry of the Orthodox Church. In addition, our children should be prepared to continue their lives with a strong foundation of faith and to continue to use their gifts to do God’s work.

Religious Library Our extensive library offers religious and spiritual texts that help both Orthodox and non-Orthodox Christians increase their knowledge and faith in Christ and the Church.

Bookstore The Parish bookstore offers religious gifts, books and items for the faithful of St. Alexander Nevsky as well as those that are interested in learning more about Orthodoxy.

In the Book of Acts (2:42), early Christians devoted themselves to the Apostles’ teaching and fellowship (koinonia, or “common life”). St. Alexander Nevsky’s organizations extend from athletics and social to service and worship.

FOCA/JR FOCA Members of the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America (FOCA) combine fellowship activities with the support of youth programs in the parish and charitable efforts in the diocese and national church. FOCA is an organization with dozens of local chapters throughout the Orthodox Church in America.

Basketball Our teams include players from 10 to 40+ years of age that compete in the annual FOCA basketball tournament. The teams promote a healthy level of athletic competition and fellowship for the participants with their Orthodox peers.

Witnessing the love of Christ to our parishioners and visitors alike, these ministries generously provide care and kindness.

Coffee Hour Volunteers build our community by supplying refreshments to break the fast with visitors and members of St. Alexander.

Greeters Our greeters create a welcoming environment for all that come through the doors of the church. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Several groups help lead the congregation in worship, including altar servers, readers, and the choir (for all members, including catechumens). We welcome you to get involved in these important ministries.

Altar Servers Altar servers include altar boys, Subdeacons, and the Deacon. They assist the clergy in the celebration of the divine services. Our Servers also assist in chanting (reading) during services, singing with the choir, and leading ministries. Boys ages five and up may serve and are welcome to talk with Father, the Deacon, or the Subdeacons.

Choir Both the adult (which is open to all members including catechumens) and junior choirs (school-age) help lead the congregation in worship for all services. The adult choir rehearses about twice a month at 7 p.m. on rotating week days, while the junior choir rehearses on select Sundays following Divine Liturgy during the school year. Refer to the monthly calendar for exact dates.

The simple preservation of the Apostolic teachings is not the sole concern of the Church. The foundations of the Orthodox faith remains unshakable only if the teachings of the Gospel and the Church are put into action. St. Alexander’s parishioners aspire to serve our Lord Jesus Christ by being obedient to his command to “make disciples of all nations” and to serve the needs of the “least of his brethren.” The Cathedral community strives to proclaim Christ’s Gospel and the light of his love to our local community. We must understand that we exist for those who are not members of the church.

Women’s Choice Network St. Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral parish is “being a voice for life” by offering our time and talents to the Women’s Choice Network (WCN), whose mission is “empowering abortion vulnerable women to choose life”. WCN is an outreach ministry of Jesus Christ through His church and is committed to assisting women to carry their babies to term by providing emotional support and practical assistance. Find out more about the partnership with WCN.

Women’s Association The sisters of our Women’s Association partner with the North Hills Community Outreach to participate in the annual winter coat collection. They also partner with the North Hills School District participating in its weekend back-pack programs.

St. Cyril of White Lake Food Pantry The food pantry and its dedicated volunteers provides food to families in need around the Pittsburgh area. Holy Assumption of St. Mary’s Orthodox Church on the South Side of Pittsburgh started the food pantry in 2010. St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral supports the food pantry with donations of food and funds as well as a team of volunteers.

OCF The Orthodox Christian Fellowship connects Orthodox college students and those interested in the Orthodox Christian faith to Christ and his church. With a large student population from the numerous colleges and universities in the Pittsburgh area, we are happy to help college students get to and from church.

Parish Growth This committee works towards expanding our parish family through outreach in the community and building a stronger parish community.

St. Alexander members also put their faith into action by supporting parish operations. These ministries ensure that our parish operates smoothly and beautifies the building and grounds.

Parish Council Leaders of the church join the council to help maintain and improve the church for its members and future generations.

Grounds Maintenance Our dedicated parishioners devote their time to the beautification and maintenance of our temple grounds. From the Akathist Hymn Glory to God for All Things: “It is the Holy Spirit Who makes us find joy in each flower- the exquisite scent, the delicate color – the beauty of the Most High in the tiniest of things. Glory and honor to the Spirit, the Giver of Life, Who covers the fields with their carpet of flowers, crowns the harvest with gold, and gives to us the joy of gazing at it with our eyes.”