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Providence Heights is home to the approximately 75 retired and semi-retired Sisters. It also houses the Providence Heights Alpha School as well as the administrative offices of the Community. The Provincial Leadership Team has offices in the Marie de la Roche Center at Providence Heights . The landmark building with its tall spire can be seen for miles around. The beautiful grounds at Providence Heights offer an oasis in the midst of the busy North Hills suburbs of Pittsburgh . The property is fronted by a lake and dotted with trees, many of which have been donated in honor or in memory of others. Wedding parties often request permission to use the property for their wedding photographs.
The bell tower at Providence Heights holds three bells. The bells were blessed on May 30, 1926 and lifted to the bell tower to proclaim the Angelus three times each day. The bells were automated in 1999 as part of the building restoration. They ring at 6 a.m. , noon , and 6 p.m. daily. The bells also ring for Sisters' funerals, jubilees and other Community celebrations. In order of size, largest to smallest, the bells were christened: Providentia, with the inscription, We exalt Thy Providence , O Lord, and we submit to all its decrees. Laudate, inscribed, Praise the Lord all ye nations, praise Him all ye peoples . Ave Maria, proclaiming, Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. At one time, the cross atop the building was painted in gold leaf. During World War II, the Sisters were asked to paint over the shiny gold leaf to prevent it from serving as a landmark to enemy aircraft. Due to increases in the cost of gold leaf, the paint was not restored. However, as part of the repairs undertaken after a devastating microburst in 1999, and because gold leaf became affordable once more, the cross was restored to its former brilliance. |
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