From the Pastor’s Desk 5/18/2025

Dear Friends,  

I write today with a full heart—grateful for the news of our new pope! On May 8th, our church bells joined the pealing bells of so many other churches around the world as we heard the news that our pope is an American who took the name Pope Leo XIV!

St. Peter’s has been full of joyful spring sacramental celebrations such as First Communions, Baptisms, and adult Confirmations.  Additionally, I join so many of you who are still basking in the happiness of our recent Spring Gala for the parish.

St. Peter’s Spring Gala on May 6 was a beautiful night of community and celebration. It was a joy to gather as a family of faith, service, and generosity. I am deeply grateful to all who supported the gala through many activities, sponsorships, and donations. Thanks to your generosity, we raised $27,000 to support the mission of St. Peter’s! I am so grateful to Marissa Dabakian, the Gala committee, and everyone who assisted in making this event such a success.

That success could not have come at a more critical time.

The Residence at St. Peter’s (formerly called the Senior Residence) which operates out of the former convent on our grounds is a non-profit entity that provides a safe and supportive home for older adults, many of whom are beloved members of our parish. Due to a sudden decline in occupancy last year, the Residence experienced financial strain and was unable to make rental payments to the parish for several months last year- a loss of income that has impacted St. Peter’s operating budget.

The good news is that the Residence has made significant strides in recent months, launching a new website in November and ramping up marketing efforts to increase occupancy. These efforts have already resulted in several new residents, and the Residence has resumed making rent payments through a structured payment plan. The success of last week’s Gala has helped St. Peter’s Parish begin to recover from the earlier shortfall—and for that, I thank you again.

Looking ahead, while we as a parish do not run the Residence, I invite you to help us support the Residence at St. Peter’s in two ways:

1.     Spread the word about the Residence to families who may be seeking a warm and caring home for an aging loved one.

2.     Volunteer your time by visiting or spending time with the residents. Your presence brings joy and deepens the intergenerational spirit that makes St. Peter’s so special.

The Residence at St. Peter’s is a true gem—a place of dignity and companionship. I am so grateful to Gina Principato and all who work there for their untiring dedication and love shown to the residents.

I love being pastor of such an amazing parish and thank you as always for your prayers and your support!

With gratitude and hope,

Fr. AJ

Watch the most recent homily clip from Fr. AJ here.

Rev. Andrew J. DeSilva