This is a special post dedicated to a very "special" person. No matter how he feels, his work, serving the Lord and God's people, has been his priority. I know he'll be there for me and for anyone who needs him. He puts up with all our teasing, of course having a great sense of humor himself, gives it right back. I try not to talk politics with him, as he knows it boils my oils. Yet, he is approachable, knowledgeable on any given subject and nothing is off the table. The first step in any healing process is admitting your shortcomings, and he is good at getting you to see them. That's why healing is possible with him as pastor. He possesses the power to reach you deep inside. And, like my mother, he has that penetrating stare, eyes that look right through you. The look that needs no words, that say it all.
We share our lives in a sort of way, being so close to the Church as I am, cooking in the kitchen, working in the garden, on various committees or, singing a Liturgy. He knows us and our lives intimately, as we know him. He's a work-a-hol-ic. Who else do you know that gets up at four in the morning to keep in touch with so many people? A goodmorning on facebook, or, a note or two on his many modes of communication, and more recently radio programs, he lets people know that he cares, as he sends out his smile in so many directions.
He participates everywhere where there are people who are in need of help and a friend. More recently he was known to ride a lawn mower on a race track, (LOL). To think about him, he is approachable, youthful, down to earth and funny. It seems he doesn't have a care in the world. But we know better.
He makes me laugh even during in a snowstorm, and because of this unique personality, people of his parish feel lucky to have him as pastor. July 5th, he will celebrate five years at St. Michael's parish in Southbridge.
I recall, joining that parish around four years ago, and he was so happy to see us in church, he couldn't hide his joy. I recall seeing him shovelling snow all alone one day as pastor, he goes beyond his pay grade. He keeps us entertained where ever he goes, because he takes us with him in his heart, which is, for those that know him "huge." And, I hope I am a better person for knowing him with his gentle correcting and guidance.
The church, community, and area towns are lucky to have Fr. Peter. Our lives are better for his being with us and with all he brings to us, everyday. I see him as the "lifeblood" to the community, with his positive influence. If we had to pay him for all he does, we could not afford him. Among his many talents are fire chaplin, cook, chief and bottle washer, radio host, and pod caster. This priest gives the best homilies and adult classes that you ever want to hear.
It has been a comfort to me, to know that while my son, Lt. Steve was serving at a fire, and I couldn't be there, Fr. Peter was there and as chaplin, was doing his duty, sometimes--just passing out much needed water to the firemen. While, at other times, it was much, much more!
He lives what he preaches: (John 15:12) "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you." The Orthodox Study Bible. So, come out on Sunday to meet a very dedicated pastor, a loyal friend, and a great human being, get to know him and find out why "we love him" as we do.
We are blessed Father Peter to have you, thank you for letting us share in your life, and for all the things you do for us, just because your you. For the joy you bring to our lives, and for your hard work. May you truly be happy in the work that God called you to.
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