St. Gertrude Roman Catholic Church

St. Gertrude Roman Catholic Church is a religious building in Vandergrift featuring a basilica layout with two bell towers and a rose window with 13 lights on its front elevation. The structure combines Italian Romanesque design elements with careful proportions and detailed stonework throughout.

Architect John Theodore Comes designed the building in Italian Romanesque Revival style, and it opened to worshippers in 1903 in Westmoreland County. Since then it has remained an important religious landmark in the region.

The church has been a gathering place for the local community since its establishment, hosting religious celebrations and community events throughout the year. Visitors can sense the strong bond between the congregation and this place through the active participation in its daily life.

The church is located on Franklin Avenue in Vandergrift and is generally accessible to visitors during operating hours. The building features an electro-mechanical bell system that creates a pleasant sound around the neighborhood, especially during worship times.

The front facade bears a Latin inscription 'Adorate dominum in aula sancta ejus' which translates to 'Worship the Lord in his holy court.' This phrase is a welcoming message carved into the stone for all who approach.

Location: Pennsylvania

Inception: 1903

Architects: John Theodore Comès

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.60278,-79.56861

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:44