Bishop David Zubik of the Diocese of Pittsburgh celebrates Mass Wednesday for the 170th anniversary of St. Wendelin Catholic School as the new school year begins. St. Wendelin is the oldest school in the diocese.

OAKLAND TWP — Nearly 150 parents, alumni and church members joined the 118 St. Wendelin Catholic School students at the school's 170th anniversary celebration Wednesday morning.

The celebration at the start of a new school year opened with Bishop David Zubik along with a vicar and four past-presiding priests con-celebrating a special Mass at St. Wendelin Roman Catholic Church.

Principal JoLynn Clouse said the students, who ranged from preschool to eighth grade, felt supported by the bishop's presence.

“The kids were so excited,” she said. “A lot of them had never seen a bishop before.”

The school's history dates to 1845 when a group of German-speaking Catholic settlers hired George Mueller as a teacher.

Mueller convinced the group to purchase six acres where they built a school and a small chapel. They named the chapel for St. Wendelin, the local patron of their place of origin.

In 1857, the facility made its first addition, and more followed as the number of students increased. Each advancement, provided the next step leading toward the present day facility.

Clouse said she also felt supported, not only by the bishop's attendance, but by the large turnout of parents and alumni as well as the church community.

She said the attendees were able to see the school's advancements in enrollment, technology upgrades and classroom renovation, all on one occasion.

“There's a sense of pride in the students and the staff and the generations that have come through here,” she said.