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