Morningside Neighborhood Yard Sale
Join us for a Cookout!
We’ll be grilling up tasty hot dogs and providing other snacks for hungry shoppers during the Morningside Yard Sale - stop by and show us what you bought!
The annual yard sale is a family affair for our Morningside neighbors - kids are invited to open up a lemonade stand to provide cool refreshments for shoppers looking for hot deals.
Juneteenth
A Celebration of Freedom and Faith
"For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another." — Galatians 5:13
Juneteenth (short for "June 19th") marks the day in 1865 when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to ensure that all enslaved people be freed. This arrived a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.
It is a day of restoration, remembrance, and rejoicing. It reminds us that while the "arc of the moral universe is long," it does indeed bend toward justice.
As a community of faith, we believe that spiritual freedom and physical liberation go hand-in-hand. We celebrate Juneteenth to:
Honor Resilience: We pay tribute to the strength and faith of African Americans who maintained hope through generations of systemic oppression.
Reflect on Truth: We acknowledge our history with honesty, understanding that the work of reconciliation requires us to look clearly at the past.
Commit to Action: We renew our promise to love our neighbors by advocating for equity and dignity for all God’s children today.
Summer Porch Concert
Summer Porch Concert Series
Music in Morningside is back for the 6th year, hosted by our Morningside neighbor Beth Claussen.
🎵 Friday, June 19 @ 7:00 PM
Kick off the summer with a lineup of incredible local talent!
Larry Richert
Michelle Hall and Marion Rent
📍 Location & Event Details
Where: The Corner of Jancey Street & Hampton Street in Morningside
What to Bring: BYOB, BYOC, BYOF
Admission: Free to attend, but donations are greatly appreciated by the artists
ALERT: Father’s Day @ Pittsburgh Zoo
Morningside Traffic Alert
Heads up, neighbors! Due to free Father’s Day admission heavy traffic is expected near the Pittsburgh Zoo on Sunday, June 21. Butler and Baker Streets will be heavily congested.
If you're planning to visit the Zoo or ELLC on Father’s Day, expect a much busier day than usual in our neighborhood.
Summer Porch Concert
Summer Porch Concert Series
Music in Morningside is back for the 6th year, hosted by our Morningside neighbor Beth Claussen.
🎵 Friday, July 24 @ 7:00 PM
📍 Location & Event Details
Where: The Corner of Jancey Street & Hampton Street in Morningside
What to Bring: BYOB, BYOC, BYOF
Admission: Free to attend, but donations are greatly appreciated by the artists
St. Jude Parish Festival
47th Annual Feast of Saint Rocco
Friday, August 8: 7:00-10:00pm
Saturday, August 9: 5:00-10:00pm
Sunday, August 10: 6:00-10:00pm
FUN!
Carnival games, kids’ zone (games, bounce house, crafts, and face painting), live music, flea market, used book sale, raffle, and basket raffle.
FOOD!
Nightly dinner specials and beer garden. Indoor and covered outdoor seating.
LIVE MUSIC!
Fireworks Sunday at 10:15 pm
Click here for more information:
https://saintjudepgh.org/saint-jude-festival
Summer Porch Concert
Summer Porch Concert Series
Music in Morningside is back for the 6th year, hosted by our Morningside neighbor Beth Claussen.
🎵 Friday, August 21 @ 7:00 PM
Whiskey River
Shane McLaughlin and Jason Borisoff
📍 Location & Event Details
Where: The Corner of Jancey Street & Hampton Street in Morningside
What to Bring: BYOB, BYOC, BYOF
Admission: Free to attend, but donations are greatly appreciated by the artists
Summer Porch Concert & Party
Summer Porch Concert Series Finale
Music in Morningside is back for the 6th year, hosted by our Morningside neighbor Beth Claussen.
🎵 Friday, September 18 @ 6:00 PM
The Grand Finale & Summer Closer! The season wraps up with a blockbuster show:
Jimmy Krenn
Just In Time
📍 Location & Event Details
Where: The Corner of Jancey Street & Hampton Street in Morningside
What to Bring: BYOB, BYOC, BYOF
Admission: Free to attend, but donations are greatly appreciated by the artists
Reformation Day
Celebrating Our Heritage
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God."
— Ephesians 2:8
On October 31 we celebrate a movement that changed the world. Reformation Day marks the anniversary of Martin Luther posting his 95 Theses in 1517, sparking a return to the core truths of the Gospel.
This day not is a joyful reminder of the freedom we have in Christ today.
Why the Reformation Still Matters
The Reformation wasn't just about a door in Germany; it was about reclaiming the "Good News." It reminds us of four essential truths that define our faith:
Grace Alone (Sola Gratia): We are saved by God’s unconditional love, not by our own efforts or "being good enough."
Faith Alone (Sola Fide): Our relationship with God is a gift received through trust in Jesus Christ.
Scripture Alone (Sola Scriptura): The Bible is our final authority and the true source of God’s Word for our lives.
Christ Alone (Solus Christus): Jesus is the only bridge between humanity and God.
Always Reforming
Being Lutheran means we believe the church is semper reformanda—always being reformed by the Holy Spirit. We invite you to join us as we continue to grow, learn, and serve our community in the light of God’s grace. Whether you grew up in the Lutheran tradition or are just curious about what "Grace Alone" really means, there is a seat for you here.
All Saints' Day
We Do Not Walk Alone
In the Lutheran tradition, we hold a unique and comforting view of what it means to be a "saint." We believe that every Christian is simultaneously sinner and saint (simul iustus et peccator).
Being a saint isn’t about reaching a level of moral perfection or performing miracles. Instead, it is a gift of grace. You are a saint because of what Christ has done for you, not because of what you have done for Him.
The Church Triumphant: Those who have died in the faith and now rest in the presence of God.
The Church Militant: Those of us still living, serving, and striving in our daily walk of faith.
Why It Matters Today
All Saints’ Day reminds us that we do not walk alone. We are part of a "great cloud of witnesses" (Hebrews 12:1) that stretches back to the apostles and forward to generations yet unborn.
It is a day to find strength in our shared history and courage for our future, knowing that the same God who guided the saints of old is walking beside us today.
Thanksgiving
Celebrating Abundance and Community
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." — Psalm 107:1
In the heart of autumn, we pause to acknowledge the many blessings in our lives and the strength of the community that surrounds us. This Thanksgiving, East Liberty Lutheran Church invites you to join us as we offer our gratitude to the Giver of all good things.
Whether your holiday is filled with family or you are looking for a place to find connection, our doors are wide open. Let’s gather to share in the spirit of abundance, and remember that we are never alone at the table.
Small Business Saturday
SHOP SMALL . . . BIG IMPACT!
#ShopSmall and local to support the Morningside business district on Small Business Saturday!
Clotho & Frigg Sewing Studio online
LUX Artisan Chocolates online
Morningside Market
Pixie Salon
Christmas
The Season of Hope
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." — John 1:14
Christmas is the profound celebration of God’s Word becoming flesh. We invite you to step away from the holiday rush and enter into the quiet, transformative wonder of the Nativity.
In the midst of the darkest time of year, we are reminded that a light has dawned that the darkness cannot overcome. Whether you are a long-time member, a returning visitor, or searching for a spiritual home this season, there is a place for you in our pews.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Honoring the Dream
"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Every January, we pause to honor the life, legacy, and prophetic voice of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As a Lutheran community, we recognize this day not just as a federal holiday, but as a profound opportunity to reflect on our calling to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.
Why We Observe This Day
Dr. King’s message of nonviolence and radical love was deeply rooted in the Gospel. He challenged the world to see the "beloved community"—a vision where poverty, hunger, and homelessness will not be tolerated because international standards of human decency will not allow it.
As Lutherans, we believe that we are freed in Christ to serve our neighbor. Observing MLK Day reminds us that:
Faith requires action: Faith without works is dead; our worship must lead us into the world to advocate for the marginalized.
Every person is an Imago Dei: Every human being is created in the image of God and deserves dignity, equity, and respect.
The work is ongoing: While progress has been made, the "giant triplets" Dr. King spoke of—racism, materialism, and militarism—still challenge our society today.
Resources for Further Learning
If you are looking to deepen your understanding of racial justice through a Lutheran lens, we recommend the following:
ELCA Social Statement: Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity, and Culture
Study: The "Letter from Birmingham Jail" (Great for small group discussion).
Ash Wednesday
The Lenten Journey
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent—a 40-day period (excluding Sundays) of reflection, repentance, and preparation as we journey toward the joy of Easter. It is a day of profound honesty, where we acknowledge our humanity and our deep need for God’s grace.
Our Ash Wednesday service is a contemplative experience centered on the ritual of the Imposition of Ashes. During this service, we receive the sign of the cross on our foreheads with ashes made from the palm branches of the previous year’s Palm Sunday.
This ancient practice serves as a powerful dual reminder:
Our Mortality: "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return."
Our Redemption: The ashes are applied in the shape of a cross, reminding us that we belong to Christ forever.
We invite you to join your neighbors for this solemn yet hopeful start to the Lenten season. Whether you have observed Lent for decades or this is your first time walking through our doors, there is a place for you here.
Palm Sunday
Hosanna in the Highest
"They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, 'Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!'" — John 12:13
The account of Palm Sunday, found in all four Gospels, tells of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a humble donkey. This was a deliberate, counter-cultural act. While kings and conquerors of that era typically arrived on mighty warhorses surrounded by military pageantry, Jesus chose a beast of burden, signaling a different kind of kingdom—one not built on force, violence, or political power, but on humility and peace.
The crowds, misunderstanding his mission, spread their cloaks and palm branches on the road, cheering him as a triumphant Messiah who would liberate them from Roman occupation. They sought an earthly victory; Jesus came to offer an eternal redemption.
The Significance for Faith
In the Lutheran understanding of the faith, Palm Sunday serves as an essential bridge. It reminds us of several core truths:
The Humility of God: We see the King of Kings choosing to be vulnerable. It is a reminder that God’s power is "made perfect in weakness" ($2 Corinthians 12:9$).
The Misplaced Expectations: The story challenges us to examine our own hearts. How often do we want Jesus to be the leader we want—the one who fixes our immediate problems or aligns with our political agendas—rather than accepting him as the Savior who calls us to repentance and a life of self-giving love?
The Path to the Cross: By placing the Palm Sunday story immediately before the Passion narrative, the church forces us to see that the road to Easter glory must first pass through the suffering of the cross.
From Hosanna to Hope
The word Hosanna literally means "Save us, we pray!" While the crowds shouted it in celebration of a temporary deliverer, the Church continues to cry it out in recognition of our absolute need for the true Deliverer.
Palm Sunday invites us to pause and reflect on the nature of the Kingdom of God. It is a reminder that the victory of Christ was not won by raising a sword, but by laying down his life. As we enter Holy Week, we are invited to set aside our expectations of worldly power and instead walk behind the One who leads us with mercy, truth, and grace.
Maundy Thursday Community Dinner
Join Us!
Whether you have walked this path or this is your first Holy Week, there is a place for you at the table. Join us for a Maundy Thursday Community Dinner with service to follow. Please RSVP by calling 412-362-1712.
The Beauty of the Basin and the Bread
On this holy night, we gather to enter the Triduum—the three sacred days leading to Easter. Maundy Thursday marks the night Jesus shared his final meal with his disciples, gave us a new commandment, and knelt to perform the work of a servant.
The word "Maundy" comes from the Latin mandatum, meaning "commandment." It refers to the words of Jesus in John 13:34:
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another."
Reflecting at Home
If you cannot join us in person, we invite you to read John 13:1–17, 31b–35. Consider how you might "wash the feet" of those in your own life this week through acts of quiet service and radical love.
Good Friday
The Adoration of the Cross
"It is finished." — John 19:30
On Good Friday, the East Liberty Lutheran Church community gathers not in celebration, but in solemn remembrance. We stand at the foot of the cross, reflecting on the profound mystery of a God who chooses to suffer alongside humanity. This is a day of shadow, silence, and deep grace.
Holy Saturday
The Quiet Between
"Even the darkness is not dark to You; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with You." — Psalm 139:12
While Good Friday marks the sacrifice and Easter Sunday celebrates the victory, Holy Saturday is the space in between—the day Christ rested in the tomb.
In the Lutheran tradition, we view this day not as a void, but as a sacred pause. It is a time to sit with the reality of mortality and the weight of God’s love.
What is Holy Saturday?
Often overshadowed by the preparation for Easter brunch or egg hunts, Holy Saturday is the final day of the Triduum (the Three Days). Historically, the Church remains in a state of mourning:
The Altar remains bare, stripped during the Maundy Thursday service.
The Sanctuary is quiet, reflecting the stillness of the grave.
Our hearts are expectant, acknowledging that while the world felt dark for the disciples, the light was already breaking through.
Ways to Observe the Day
Because this is a day of transition, your personal observance can be simple and contemplative:
Practice Silence: Dedicate an hour of your day to unplugging from devices and noise. Reflect on what it means that God experienced death for our sake.
A Simple Prayer: Focus on the faithfulness of God when He seems hidden.
Prepare Your Heart: Use this day to move from the grief of the Cross to the anticipation of the Empty Tomb.
The Easter Vigil
The culmination of Holy Saturday is the Easter Vigil. Traditionally held after sunset, this service is the first celebration of the Resurrection. It begins in darkness with the lighting of the Paschal Candle—representing the Light of Christ breaking into the world—and moves into the joyous "Alleluia" that has been silent throughout Lent.
Easter
Celebrate the Resurrection With Us!
"He is not here; he has risen, just as he said." — Matthew 28:6
This Easter, we invite you to join our vibrant community as we celebrate the profound joy of the Resurrection. Whether you are a lifelong member, a Morningside neighbor, or someone looking for a place to start a new tradition, you are welcome here.
Easter at East Liberty Lutheran Church is a celebration of hope, renewal, and the radical love that connects us all. Come as you are—bring your questions, your faith, and your family—as share in the promise of new life.
We can't wait to share this beautiful morning with you. Let’s celebrate the victory of light over darkness together!
ALERT: Mother's Day @ Pittsburgh Zoo
Morningside Traffic Alert
Heads up, neighbors! Due to free Mother’s Day admission heavy traffic is expected near the Pittsburgh Zoo on Sunday, May 10. Butler and Baker Streets will be heavily congested.
🚗 Traffic & Parking Schedule
Due to the anticipated high volume of visitors, the Zoo will be operating on a modified entry schedule:
3:30 PM: Parking lots will close.
4:00 PM: Admission gates will close early to ensure those inside have enough time to enjoy the exhibits.
5:30 PM: Zoo grounds will close as per usual.
If you're planning to visit the Zoo for Mother's Day, expect a much busier day than usual.
Holy Trinity Sunday
Celebrating the Mystery
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." — Matthew 28:19
Unlike many festivals in the church year that commemorate a specific event (like the birth of Jesus at Christmas or the resurrection at Easter), Holy Trinity Sunday celebrates a doctrine. It falls on the first Sunday after Pentecost and serves as a beautiful "summary" of the entire story of salvation.
The Father: Our Creator, who spoke the world into being and loves us with an everlasting parental grace.
The Son: Jesus Christ, God incarnate, who walked our earth, shared our suffering, and redeemed us through his death and resurrection.
The Holy Spirit: Our Comforter and Advocate, who breathes life into the Church and sustains our faith today.
Why Does It Matter?
You might wonder, "Does a 4th-century doctrine actually change my life on a Monday morning?"
In the Lutheran tradition, the Trinity reminds us that God is inherently communal. Before the world began, God was already a relationship of love. This means that we are created in the image of a God who values connection, community, and self-giving love. When we worship the Trinity, we aren't just reciting a creed; we are being invited into that divine circle of love.
Join Us This Sunday
Whether you’ve been a lifelong Lutheran or you’re just curious about who God is, there is a place for you here. Come and lean into the mystery with us.
Day of Pentecost
The Church’s Birthday
Pentecost is one of the most vibrant and significant festivals in the Christian calendar. Celebrated 50 days after Easter, it marks the conclusion of the Easter season and commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ.
In the Lutheran tradition, we often refer to Pentecost as the "Birthday of the Church." It is the day the mission of the Gospel transitioned from a small group of followers in Jerusalem to a global movement that continues to this day.
Why We Celebrate
Pentecost is more than just a historical event; it is a celebration of God’s ongoing presence in our lives.
The Gift of the Holy Spirit: We celebrate that God did not leave us alone, but sent the Comforter to guide, sanctify, and keep the Church in the one true faith.
Unity in Diversity: Pentecost shows that the Gospel is for everyone. It breaks down barriers of language, race, and culture.
Empowerment for Mission: Just as the Spirit sent the first disciples out into the streets of Jerusalem, the Spirit sends us out today to serve our neighbors and share the love of Christ.
Join Us this Pentecost
Whether you are a long-time member or a first-time visitor, we invite you to experience the energy and hope of this festival. Come celebrate the Spirit that gathers us together, enlightens us with gifts, and sends us out to be a blessing to the world.
Ascension Day
Why the Ascension Changes Everything
"And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." — Matthew 28:20
Ascension Day—observed 40 days after Easter—is a day of profound joy and triumph. It marks the moment when the resurrected Jesus ascended into heaven to sit at the right hand of the Father.
But this isn't a story about Jesus leaving us behind; it’s a story about Jesus taking charge.
Why the Ascension Matters
In the Lutheran tradition, we emphasize that Christ’s ascension isn't a "retirement." Instead, it is His coronation.
He Fills All Things: As we confess in the Creed, Jesus is now at the "right hand of God." This isn't a physical GPS coordinate in the clouds; it’s a position of ultimate power. Because He is no longer limited by time and space, He can be truly present with all of us, everywhere, through His Word and Sacraments.
Our Advocate: We have a human brother in the throne room of the universe. Jesus carries our humanity into the presence of God, interceding for us with wounds that prove His love.
The Promise of Return: Just as the disciples watched Him go, we live in the "blessed hope" that He will return to restore all things.
Living the Ascension Today
Because Christ is King, we don't have to live in fear. We are sent out into our neighborhood—just as the disciples were sent to Jerusalem, Judea, and the ends of the earth—to share the good news of a King whose kingdom is built on mercy, grace, and sacrificial love.
NFL Draft Day Camp by City Squeakers
Asynchronous Learning Day Camp by City Squeakers✨📚
Need support for the upcoming draft and asynchronous learning days?
City Squeakers Asynchronous Learning Day Camp provides a structured, supportive environment where students can complete their assigned schoolwork with help from experienced teachers—then have some fun in the afternoons!
✔️ Teacher support for assigned schoolwork👩🏽🏫
✔️ Snack provided🥨
✔️ Daily walk to the playground 🌳🛝
✔️ Fun-filled afternoon activities 🎨🎲
💲 $40 per day
💙 Flexible—pick and choose the days and pick up times
👧🧒🏾 Open to students in Kindergarten–5th Grade
Spots are limited—register below or email citysqueakers@gmail.com to learn more.
✏️ This program is designed with PPS students who will be working asynchronously during the upcoming NFL draft in mind. Students outside the district are welcome as long as they come with assigned work to complete so as to not disrupt those that are working. Full schedule and details provided on registration form.