Local Pittsburgh Catholic Church Mosaic Among the Largest in the United States

on


Exterior triptych mosaic at Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic Church in Pittsburgh, PA, designed by Rudolph Rohn and fabricated in Italy, one of the largest mosaics in the U.S. with seven million pieces of Venetian glass depicting the Holy Trinity and biblical figures.


Rudolph Rohn, renowned liturgical artist and founder of Rohn & Associates, designed the exterior triptych mosaics at Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic Church in Pittsburgh, PA, in the early 1960s. Composed of seven million pieces of Venetian glass and radiating sacred symbolism, these mosaics are among the largest in the United States. Today, Rudolph’s son, Rolf Rohn, is developing a careful restoration plan for the mosaics to ensure these sacred artworks endure for generations, continuing to inspire faith and devotion.

The mosaic’s centerpiece depicts the Holy Trinity, flanked by twelve figures from the Old and New Testaments. The composition conveys the continuity of God’s plan and invites profound spiritual contemplation. Sunlight refracts through the radiant glass throughout the day, casting a kaleidoscope of color and light over the surrounding neighborhood and inspiring all who pass by with a sense of divine presence and hope.

Inside the church, Rudolph created expansive Byzantine-style decorations, including a breathtaking altar mural of the Most Holy Mother of God and Christ Child. This revered image depicts the Holy Spirit descending upon the apostles during Pentecost, celebrating the birth of the Church and the abiding power of God's grace. The church also features eight custom Byzantine stained glass windows, crafted by Rohlf Studio in Yonkers, NY, further enriching the interior’s liturgical and artistic atmosphere.

The mosaics and mural were solemnly blessed on September 11, 1966, marking a significant milestone in the parish’s journey. Today, they remain a vibrant testament to Eastern European tradition and artistry, continuing to uplift worshippers and visitors alike.

At the same time, Rolf’s ongoing restoration work ensures that these masterpieces will continue to shine for years to come, preserving both their spiritual significance and divine craftsmanship. Through careful planning and expert guidance, the mosaics and mural will remain a lasting legacy for the Pittsburgh community.


Byzantine-style altar mural inside Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic Church in Pittsburgh, PA, by Rudolph Rohn, depicting the Most Holy Mother of God and Christ Child with the Holy Spirit descending on the apostles during Pentecost.
Photo by Fr. David Abernathy via Twitter

Exterior triptych mosaic at Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic Church in Pittsburgh, PA, designed by Rudolph Rohn and fabricated in Italy, one of the largest mosaics in the U.S. with seven million pieces of Venetian glass depicting the Holy Trinity and biblical figures.
Photo by Bohemian Baltimore, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons