In Memory of Rev. Warren Metzler

St. James Church in Wilkinsburg began the New Year with a great loss; on New Year’s Day, their pastor of 34 years, Warren Metzler, passed on. Warren was a long time member of the Merton Center and during his adult years he was a strong witness for peace, non-violence, and social justice. He protested the Vietnam War by participating in peace vigils. He was a tax resister opposing tax dollars used for war. He was a draft counselor for conscientious objectors. In opposing the Iraq war he participated in a die in along Fifth Avenue during a peace march here in Pittsburgh.

Fr. Metzler was active in the Association of Pittsburgh Priests and called his congregation to form a social justice and peace committee. He was a voice opposing violence in Wilkinsburg. Even in the face of a limited budget, he continued to have a social service minister on his staff for social services to the Wilkinsburg community. He fostered diversity in all forms within the congregation where all were welcome. His parish was an active member of the PA Interfaith Impact Network. He supported PIIN’s efforts and was a voice for economic justice supporting the drive for $15 an hour by fast food restaurant workers in Wilkinsburg and beyond.

In his senior years, living to be 79, Fr. Metzler became very enthused with the example of Pope Francis, and he spoke about many of the Pope's recent messages of inclusion, the care of the planet, the plight of refugees and immigrants, and economic justice.

The witness of Fr, Metzler s life has inspired many and his spirit will live on in his legacy of peace, justice, and nonviolence.

Joyce Rothermel is a member of St. James Parish in Wilkinsburg.

#article