From Our Pastor

(from the weekend bulletin for January 28-29)

Dear Parishioners,

 At the beginning of the rite of Viaticum outside Mass the following words are prayed by the priest: “My brothers and sisters, before our Lord Jesus Christ passed from this world to return to the Father, he left us the sacrament of his body and blood. When the hour comes for us to  pass from this life and join him, he strengthens us with this food for our journey and comforts us by this pledge of our resurrection.” Viaticum is receiving the body and if possible the blood of Christ one last time before death in order to be strengthened for the journey into everlasting life. The rite of Viaticum also gives the dying person the option of going to confession one last time before death. As the rite says: “The sacrament of the anointing of the sick should be celebrated at the beginning of a serious illness. Viaticum celebrated when death is close, will then be better understood as the last sacrament of Christian life.”

The Church understands that sometimes a person can face death in a very unexpected way, for example a serious car accident, or a heart attack. The person may not be able to receive Viaticum, in that case the priest will anoint the person and pray the prayers of the dying if the person is in danger of death. But in ordinary circumstances a parishioner who has been diagnosed with a serious illness should contact the parish as soon as possible to be anointed. For a person near death, the parish should be contacted so that the rite of Viaticum can be celebrated before death. I cannot think of a greater gift than to receive the body and blood of Christ one last time before death.

 If you have any questions about the sacrament of anointing or the rite of Viaticum, please do not hesitate to contact either me or Fr. Larry.  God Bless!

 -Father Don

Debt Free By One 3

Our expansion campaign has always been about the people. People count on what we do, from providing relevant worship and support groups, to being Christ in our community, to instilling Catholic values in tomorrow’s leaders . . . and much more! Please take a moment to read our Debt Free In One 3 Brochure and consider helping us reach our goal.

100th Anniversary Kickoff Celebration!

On June 29, 2011, St. Peter Parish celebrated 100 years as a parish. First we celebrated with Mass then everyone was invited to a wonderful meal prepared by our Knights of Columbus. This was the kick-off for our 100th year celebration. This coming year we hope to have more activities to celebrate this big event because 100 years is quite an accomplishment. For 100 years the gospel of Jesus Christ has been proclaimed here at St. Peter Parish which means many, many people have heard the good news of Jesus, the good news that God has loved us first. For that reason we need to show our gratitude by celebrating throughout this whole year. Please look for announcements in the bulletin, this web site, and at weekend Masses regarding 100th year activities. If you have any ideas concerning this celebration, please share them with me or one of our Pastoral Council members. God bless you all, Fr. Don

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