The Pastors Desk – September 1st

Our bulletin publisher, on the occasion of me announcing my retirement from the pastorate at St Francis, asked me to write a short autobiography. I was willing enough to comply, but was I surprised by the many unusual thoughts and emotions! Some were comforting, others unsettling. Strange, but I can’t complain; I have received four extensions of my terms; “mandatory” retirement is supposed to be at 75 years of age. In October I will be 80 years old, yet the awareness that I am finishing my last assignment is still not really welcome. Some parishioners broke into tears when they got the news – I responded with my own right on the spot! More on related topics next week. 

– Fr. Peter

The Pastors Desk – September 8th

The bulletin is being published early due to the Labor Day holiday. Fr. Peter is out of town, but has submitted an excerpt from his autobiography that will be available shortly in its entirety on the parish website. Fr. Peter also says he is looking forward to seeing many of you for his retirement Gala at the Larkfield on September 26th! 

St. Francis Years – Brick and Mortar Pastor 

Now at the age of 65, Fr. Peter became the third Pastor of St. Francis of Assisi parish in Greenlawn. It was described by the Diocesan accountant as “a little gem.” What he meant was that the parish was financially sound, and could meet its goals with the annual Catholic Ministries Appeal. And so it was, we have never failed to meet our goals and assessments at St. Francis. Fr. Peter was able to undertake a number of substantial projects during this time. Some noteworthy accomplishments of the capital campaign: 

• • Installation of a new air conditioning system 
  • Installation of a first class elevator, making access to the church and the lower church much easier for those with physical challenges 
  • Creation of a restroom and foyer extension 
  • Paving of the parking lot, with night lighting installed 
  • Rebuilt the stone staircase at the church main entrance 
  • Rebuilding and repurposing of former three-car maintenance garage to create counseling rooms and large upstairs meeting rooms 
  • Replacement of the 40-year-old boiler in the church, converting the heating system from home heating oil to natural gas. 
  • Blacktop for the rectory driveway 
  • Appointment of Peter Schubart as the new Music Director, with an awesome music program 

The Pastors Desk – September 15th

Believe me, I never thought retiring would be so hard. Of course, I will not miss the “Daily Grind” – the leaks, locks, and ledgers, the necessary distractions from the “Real” pastoral portion of our work! But I will miss YOU! 

Fifteen years ago, I returned to St. Francis at 65 years of age, well beyond the best years for remembering names and faces. Still, it was like coming home because I had already been here before. Going forward I will be residing locally in Huntington Station, so I know that I will see you from time to time. Our meetings will always be a joy. “Movin’ on” is a universal experience for all, and being a priest and being a pastor are no exceptions. Please pray for me, that this Lord guides me to the path of service that he calls me to. Also, please come to the Gala, and the special hospitality being arranged after all Masses on Oct 5th and 6th and planned for me. I know that for some, the gala ticket will be an obstacle, but I would love to see you all. 

Since a new Pastor will be serving you next month, it will be a bit different. We see the wider church currently responding to very different circumstances. My leaving is on another level, as the larger Catholic church begins together to face a common future and continues to spread the Gospel and message of Christ’s Love and Promises.

Friday September 27 is the feast of St. Vincent de Paul. All are invited to the 8:30am Mass, followed by hospitality in the lower church sponsored by the volunteers of our St. Vincent de Paul Society.