AHPS

Preserving the Past to Enhance the Future

AHPS and Calvary

Over 30 years ago, Calvary United Methodist Church stood on the brink of closing. The roof and windows leaked, the sanctuary was shut down due to a lack of funds for heating and the church had no pastor in place. The future looked uncertain.

During this critical time, the Rev. Bob Richards — then Director of Church Union, with an office located where our pastor’s office is today — stepped in to serve as Calvary’s “volunteer” minister. At the same time, concerned neighbors and friends formed the Allegheny Historic Preservation Society (AHPS), a nonprofit organization with a singular mission: to secure grant and foundation funding to save Calvary’s historic building.

Their efforts were extraordinary. More than three million dollars has since been raised to restore and upgrade the church. The slate roof was repaired, the Tiffany windows were restored, an elevator was installed, carpeting was replaced, the sanctuary was reopened and the organ was restored. Within just two and a half years, Calvary once again had a full-time pastor.

The list of improvements continues to grow — because when there are resources, much can be done.

Tiffany Concert Series 2026

Enjoy live music at Calvary UMC! Presented with AHPS and sponsored by GBU Life, the Tiffany Concert Series delights the senses and helps preserve this historic treasure for future generations.

Scheduled Events

Your Support Makes Restoration Possible

Why Join AHPS

Want to Learn More?

Membership Levels

Join AHPS and help care for Calvary’s past, present and future. We have inherited a treasure—our church—and the work of caring for it continues. From preserving our historic beauty to funding essential improvements like upgraded bathrooms, the Allegheny Historic Preservation Society (AHPS) plays a vital role in keeping Calvary safe, welcoming and accessible for all.

Your membership does more than support a single project. It sends a powerful message to foundations and grant funders that Calvary’s future is supported by an active, engaged community. That support opens doors to funding that would not otherwise be possible. Simply put, your participation helps make restoration and renewal happen.

Membership Levels

Want to Learn More?

Membership Levels

Individual: $20
Household: $35
Patron: $100 (Patrons are recognized in every concert program throughout the season)

Membership forms are available in the Narthex and Chapel, or checks may be made payable to AHPS and placed in the offering baskets.

More Ways to Support

Attend concerts and events. These gatherings welcome new people into our Sanctuary, celebrate Calvary’s beauty and inspire generosity.

Share your gifts. If you have experience with grants, fundraising or creative program ideas, AHPS would love your input.

Want to Learn More?

Discover how AHPS continues to support Calvary’s restoration and future projects. Learn about upcoming events, membership opportunities and ways to get involved by visiting the AHPS website.

Together, through this unique partnership between Calvary and AHPS, we continue a story of restoration, hope and possibility. Who knows what wonderful things God has in store for our church?

Visit the AHPS website

Scheduled Events

Saturday, January 18 at 4PM — Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra

PYSO returns to the Tiffany Concert Series. The concert will feature PYSO’s Strings Section performing divertimenti, chamber music, and other works. The concert also includes 2nd and 3rd place winners of PYSO’s concerto competition and PYSO winners of the Pittsburgh Concert Society Young Artists auditions.

Sunday, February 15 at 5PM — Tom Roberts: A Concert by Candlelight

Charlie Chaplin Silent Film Night with internationally acclaimed pianist and composer Tom Roberts. Roberts will perform his original live score to a selection of Chaplin’s classic silent films, including The Rink, The Pawn Shop, and Kid Auto Race at Venice, with a special encore of One A.M. Known for his mastery of early jazz and silent film accompaniment, Roberts brings a rich musical legacy to this family-friendly, accessible event.

Sunday, March 22 at 4PM — Gretchen Van Hoesen, Pittsburgh Symphony's Extraordinary Harpist

Gretchen Van Hoesen, principal harpist of the Pittsburgh Symphony since 1977, has performed as a soloist with renowned conductors and orchestras around the world. She has given premieres of major works, collaborated with celebrated artists, and recorded extensively. A dedicated educator, Van Hoesen teaches at Carnegie Mellon and Duquesne Universities, leads master classes internationally, and has mentored numerous award-winning students. A Juilliard and Eastman School of Music graduate, she is recognized for her artistry, versatility, and contributions to the harp community.

Sunday, May 3 at 4PM — Hymn Sing

Join us for a joyful Hymn Sing with Brian Burns on Calvary’s historic Farrand & Votey Organ. Lift your voice in beloved hymns and experience the rich, resonant sound of one of the region’s most remarkable historic organs. This family-friendly, community-focused event is perfect for anyone who loves music, tradition, and the chance to sing together in a beautiful, historic setting.

Allegheny Historic Preservation Society

Preserving the Past to Enhance the Future

AHPS and Calvary

Tiffany Concert Series 2026

Your Support Makes Restoration Possible

Why Join AHPS

Want to Learn More?

Membership Levels

Membership Levels

Want to Learn More?

Membership Levels

Want to Learn More?

Want to Learn More?

Want to Learn More?

Tiffany Concert Series 2026

2026

Tiffany Concert Series

Scheduled Events

Saturday, January 18 at 4PM — Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra

Sunday, February 15 at 5PM — Tom Roberts: A Concert by Candlelight

Sunday, March 22 at 4PM — Gretchen Van Hoesen, Pittsburgh Symphony's Extraordinary Harpist

Sunday, May 3 at 4PM — Hymn Sing

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