Westmoreland happenings highlight Holy Week services and community events

Local churches and groups across Westmoreland County are holding Holy Week services this week, and a Vitalant community blood drive is scheduled April 1 in Trafford; other fundraisers, meetings and performances are listed through April.

Local congregations, community groups and civic organizations in Westmoreland County have posted a series of spring events and services. The listings bring together Holy Week observances, charitable efforts, meetings and cultural programs for area residents. Dates and locations are given for services, drives and activities taking place through April. This compilation is intended to summarize what has been announced locally. Notable events: - Holy Week services are scheduled at multiple churches: Community Church of Hecla will hold Maundy Thursday (April 2, 7 p.m.), Easter Vigil (April 4, 5 p.m.) and Easter Sunday (April 5, 10:30 a.m.); Living Word Congregational Church will hold prayer and praise services March 30–April 3; West Newton First Church of God and nearby churches have Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter services including an Easter sunrise service on April 5. - The annual Walk of the Cross in downtown Irwin will begin at noon April 3 at First Presbyterian Church and will proceed to four downtown churches to remember Good Friday. - A Vitalant community blood drive is scheduled 1 to 5 p.m. April 1 at the Level Green Community Building in Trafford; the event is sponsored by the Level Green Community Women's Club and appointments are recommended. - A dine-to-donate event to benefit Mon Valley Paws is set for April 30 at Foster House in Washington Township, Fayette County, with a percentage of sales to be donated and a basket auction planned. - The Botanical Society of Westmoreland County will meet at 6 p.m. April 1 at the Westmoreland Conservation District Barn with guest speakers on "Mystical Moths," and annual dues will be collected. - Community offerings also include performances and senior activities: Westmoreland Performing Arts will present "Jesus Christ Superstar" April 3–4 at the Palace Theatre; seniors’ programs include a PennDOT-approved Seniors for Safe Driving class April 27 and a bus trip April 28 to see "Joshua" at Sight & Sound Theatre organized by St. Bartholomew Parish Rosary Altar Society. Summary: The notices show a mix of religious observances, charitable activities and cultural programs occurring across Westmoreland County in early April and later in the month. Several events are concentrated in the first week of April, with additional fundraisers, meetings and performances scheduled through April.