Pastor’s Perspective – November 15

“This is My Church” – A Journey of Communion and Shared Mission First Month Update – Building Fund Campaign

As we near the end of the first month of our Building Fund Campaign, This is My Church, our hearts are filled with gratitude. What we are witnessing is more than the initial results of a campaign—it is the visible fruit of something deeper: a community growing more deeply rooted in Christ’s self-giving love and united in a shared mission.

 

This campaign is not just about raising funds—it is an invitation for each of us to move from being observers to becoming active participants; from simply attending to truly belonging. Every act of generosity is a response to God’s call to co-responsibility, a concrete way to take part in the mission He entrusts to His Church here at Saint Peter’s.

Fr. Henri Nouwen reminds us that both asking for support and offering it are spiritual practices, because they call us to trust—trust in God’s providence, in one another, and in the mission we are called to share. This trust does not come from fear or scarcity, but from a joyful confidence that God is already at work among us, guiding our steps and sustaining our hope.

In the unfolding of this campaign, the anonymous matching donation shines as a clear sign of God’s care. More than a financial gift, it is a grace-filled encouragement: when we step forward in faith, God responds with tenderness, sends companions, and opens unexpected paths. This generous act not only multiplies our efforts—it deepens our awareness that we do not walk alone. The Lord journeys with us, blessing each step we take together.

Let us then continue walking this road, side by side, united in faith, hope, and love. This campaign is not merely a financial effort—it is a moment of communion, a season of spiritual renewal that strengthens our identity as a people who belong, who care, and who serve. As we give from the heart, each one according to their means, we allow God to work through us and among us, revealing once more that we are His people, and that this is truly our Church.

With gratitude and prayer,

Fr. Fabio de Souza

The Resurrection Choir at St. Peter’s stands as a testament to the power of music and compassion. By coming together for the sole purpose of singing at Catholic funerals, choir members provide a touching and heartfelt gift to grieving families, lifting spirits and creating a sense of peace during times of loss.

For those who wish to be part of a choir but cannot make a weekly commitment, the Resurrection Choir is the perfect fit. We understand that people have busy lives and might find it challenging to commit to regular rehearsals. Therefore, we only practice before each funeral Mass, allowing members to participate when they are available.

If you want to be part of a choir that makes a difference without the pressure of a weekly commitment, we warmly welcome you.  The joy of making a positive impact on the lives of grieving families is the most rewarding aspect of being part of the Resurrection Choir.

Encounter is a new choir that began to serve St. Peters in late 2022. We would love to welcome singers and musicians of all ages to join our growing group. Our song selections are mostly traditional sprinkled with some contemporary – sourced from the Glory & Praise hymnal. 

 

Our choir has a passion for leading St Peter’s congregation in praise, the meaning of our name, Laudate.  We are a friendly and supportive group who love the liturgy, the music and the gift of blending our voices with each other and the assembly. The music we sing is diverse, from chant & traditional to contemporary. Our membership presently is mostly adults but families with children are always welcome. Many young people have grown up in our ranks! Singers and instrumentalists, with or without experience, who share our desire to praise and to serve, are invited to join us.

 

Youth Alive is a group of young singers and musicians who come together to offer praise to God.  Being a part of our choir provides kids and teens with opportunities to grow musically as individuals, while contributing to the artistry of singing together as a group.

There are also opportunities to grow into leading roles, thereby allowing for teens to build confidence, and become role models for the younger ones. We are always happy to welcome new members who share our passion for music, as well as a solid commitment to serving the parish of St Peter’s.

 

We are a group of singers and players who get up extra early to praise God with music!

There are opportunities for a variety of skill and confidence levels. Being able to read music is an asset but is not required. Instruments get the chance to shine by playing musical parts.

Choristers are encouraged to blend their voices in song and are provided with the opportunity to sing solo parts as needed. We practise every two weeks for about an hour. There is an emphasis on joy and mutual support.

Welcome to our Saturday Night Live Choir where our dedicated singers and musicians understand the importance of embracing modern musical styles while honoring our rich Catholic traditions. Our limited practice time before Mass enables those who are busy during the week, to fit both choir participation and Mass into their schedules. 

Our choir’s energy and enthusiasm radiates throughout the church as we engage the congregation in active participation. Our goal is to create an atmosphere that resonates with all generations, inviting the congregation to connect deeply with their spirituality through the power of music, igniting the fire of faith within every heart present.  We happily welcome new members!