104 W. First Street • Mansfield, Ohio 44902 • 419-524-2572 February 2015 • Issue 23

Family“As the family goes, so goes the nation and so goes the whole world in which we live!”

St. John Paul II

St. Peter’s

Administration/StaffFather Gregory Hite Pastor/Superintendent

Father Jeremy Miller Associate Pastor

Terry Philpott (senior status)John Reef and Dennis Striker Deacons

Bill Johnson Director of Music & Liturgy

Elizabeth Wurm Director of Religious Education, Youth Minister

Lynne Lukach Adult Faith Coordinator

Jerry Straub Business Manager

Carla Eighinger Office Assistant

Tracey Williamson Tuition Manager

Vickie Palmer Parish Secretary

Claudia Raff, Cindy Dickerson Parish Center Secretaries

Cathy Stout Development Director

Sister Bernard Marie Campbell Development Associate

Joan Gemzer Administrative Assistant to Develop-

ment & The Msgr. Dunn Foundation

Kathy Morris Marketing, “FAMILY” Editor

Michelle Failor “FAMILY” Assistant Editor

Tammy Kemerling Montessori Preschool/ Kindergarten Director

Madalyn Bauer – Elementary Principal

Mike Wasiniak High School/Junior High Principal

Melinda Milligan – Child Care Director

A complete list of parish and school staff is available on the website at www.mansfieldstpeters.org.

“Family” Graphic Design Anatra Graphic Art, Inc. website: anatragraphicart.com

Dear Friends in Christ,

The recent death of my father has caused me to revisit the experience of dying. When the event of the death of a loved one becomes something “personal,” one becomes more sensitive to how the experience impacts those who survive.

In my own case, dad was 88 and would have been 89 in January, 2015. But, in God’s time, he was called from this world to eternal life. The first lesson for me was this: our loved ones do not die according to our timetable – it is in God’s hands!

A second lesson I learned was that suffering does not have to be meaningless. It can be redemptive. I suppose as Mary beheld her Son dying on the cross, she may have felt helpless. Similarly, there arrived a point there was nothing more my brother or I could do but to keep watch and share the experience of dad’s suffering. It gave an entirely new meaning to Advent’s message of “keeping watch” and “prepare [for] the way of the Lord.” Suffering is not meaningless if experienced in the light of faith. It is redemptive. Dad was preparing for the eternal life promised him in baptism. I felt privileged to be able to pray with him, share the anointing of the sick, invoke the communion of saints to come to his aid in this moment of human weakness, and ask the angels to accompany him over the waters of death. Suffering can be redemptive.

A final lesson I learned was how much people remember, appreciate, and love. The numerous visitors to the funeral home, the number of brother priests who celebrated with me at the Mass of Christian burial, the support of my bishop, the many friends who sent cards, memorials, and expressions of sympathy and prayers underscored for me the value of human life and the strength of human solidarity. Those who supported me, my brother and family, and who honored my dad, touched my heart. It was very humbling. This is Christian love.

St. Therese of Lisieux, the “Little Flower,” once said: “O my God! I ask you for myself and those dear to me the grace to fulfill perfectly your holy will and to accept for love of you the joys and the sorrows of this passing life so that one day we may be reunited in Heaven for all eternity.”

May this destiny, eternal life, be our goal and our inspiration for living according to God’s plan for each of us. Blessings to you in this new year of grace!

Sincerely in Christ,

Greetings from the pastor

This publication will be published three times a year to alumni, friends and members of St. Peter’s Parish and St. Peter’s School. The magazine is created to connect alumni and friends of St. Peter’s to events, programs and activities taking place within the parish and school community. Any comments or responses to articles, requests to be added to the mailing list, as well as story ideas, should be directed to:

Kathy Morris, “Family” EditorSt. Peter’s Parish Center | 104 W. First Street | Mansfield, OH 44902 | 419-524-2572

or email Kathy at morris.kathy@myspartans.org

Rev. Gregory R. Hite, Pastor

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Upon entering my second year as deacon (with October of 2013 being my ordination), I continue to look forward to the call of service on the altar, reading the Gospels, and presenting my thoughts in the form of homilies regarding them. I actually do look forward to this preparation, seeking information from various great sources like: Workbook for Lectors -2015, The Collegeville Bible Commentary, recent input from Pope Francis like his book, “Joy of the Gospel”, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the Bible. All these plus information gathered from many modern authors of Roman Catholic tradition are used in the development of these homilies.

I continue to assist on the altars of my assigned parishes, St. Alphonsus, Peru, and at St. Joseph, Monroeville, on the second and fourth weekends of each month. I was also invited to do Christmas midnight Mass and the two New Year’s eve and morning Masses for which I was greatly enriched. This schedule seems to be working well

and, though it may keep me from attending some Saturday night sports activities at St. Peter’s, it helps me to stay focused on God’s overall plan for me as deacon in His Church. Maintaining balance in all schedules is, of course, a trial but a blessing, too, in that I cannot think but that spiritual growth is occurring within me. I continue to pray for His gift of wisdom in planning all events I have control over.

I am looking forward to assisting Bishop Daniel Thomas when he comes to St. Peter’s on Thursday, March 5, for a special 9:30 Mass. It is very true that some nervousness enters the preparation for such an event, but the vast amount of pride that accompanies the nerves surely outweighs that. He has already shown great signs of strong leadership in all the deaneries and with his priests and deacons as he has completed visits

to each deanery in the Toledo Diocese. I am looking forward to our special event with him and his meeting with our seniors after that Mass.

My wife, Diane, continues to be of great support in my diaconate as well as in all school functions. I simply could not do all I have been called to without her prayerful deep concern. She has assisted me in

the five Baptisms I have been called to perform this last year, and I look forward to her advice and aid in performing my deacon functions in the coming year.

God be with you all this New Year and pray for me that my principal and deacon roles might continue to blend in harmony as I constantly try to grow in knowledge and better function of both.

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Parish News

On March 21, 2015, join us for a special encore performance by Ron and Father Jeremy Miller and Company! This outstanding act of musical originals on the guitar, along with some classics, will be back at the K of C on Park Avenue West.

The evening promises great food, fun and surprises! There will even be a few friendly items auctioned off by our performers! Details and tickets will soon be available.

Save the Date

Deacon Thoughts by Mike Wasiniak

What is Outreach? In fact, Outreach is an extension of hospital ministry which serves as a follow-up for hospital patients who have been released but are no longer able to attend Mass on a regular basis due to continued illness or handicaps. Volunteers from the parish offer to bring the Eucharist to these parishioners at their homes if they so desire.

This program was first encouraged by Sister Angeline Hoffman, C.P.P.S. as a way to serve our parish when she came to St. Peter’s in 1987. At that time, the program was merely called “hospital follow-up”. Sister Angie says the origin for this program was actually initiated by Deacon Rudy Wolf of St. Peter’s Parish as a way to let people know there is a God who loves us and that we as a parish community want to show an interest in what they are doing by assisting them in their spiritual journey through life as they deal with life’s problems.

Gradually, word of the program spread and approximately fourteen volunteers offered their services to this vital need of the parish and outreach to our people, calling them and letting them know we want to be a part of their lives and help bring the peace of the Lord to them. Having worked with Sister Angie in the past, I can say she was a total inspiration to not only myself but the parish as a whole, especially in this particular program. It should be mentioned that she arranged to collect patient cards and brought them to the Parish Center where they were sorted. Then these former patients were contacted in order to set up a mutually satisfactory visit time and the Eucharist was carried to them.

When Chris Waleskowski became our Hospital Coordinator several years ago, the practice of hospital follow-up was continued under the name “Outreach” as it is known today. We still obtain patient phone and address information from the hospital patient card, although now, due to stricter HIPPA hospital rules, we now must have the patient sign and date the card granting permission for follow-up and furnish address and phone number. Our hospital minister must sign and date as a witness. A family member may also request and sign these patient cards and our hospital ministers are being instructed and advised of the importance of obtaining this information whenever possible.

Two of our present “Outreach” volunteers are Mike Hanley and Judy Tridico. Mike feels that what you get out of serving in this ministry is much more than you put into it. He believes the people he visits need to know they are still a part of the church and part of the parish. He also feels it is meaningful to

the parishioner to know that he or she is still a part of the church family. Mike has served approximately eight years ministering in the Outreach program.

Judy Tridico states that once she visited her first parishioner, it proved to be an amazing experience for her, as well as her daughter, Sophie, who visited with the parishioner’s permission. Judy finds the experience of holding hands in prayer a wonderful experience. One parishioner expressed to Judy how much it meant to her that someone from church came to see her and bring her Eucharist.

It should also be noted that in addition to the Outreach team at St. Peter’s, we also have a Homebound group of approximately 20 volunteers who take the Eucharist to parishioners as well as a number of volunteers who take the Eucharist to the various nursing homes in and around town. It wouldn’t happen without these volunteers and the parish offers their most heartfelt thanks for their dedication and service. This also includes the many hospital volunteers who offer their time and service.

If you have a family member or friend who is homebound or in the nursing home or hospital who might not yet be included on our list, please contact the Parish Center at 419-524-2572 and we will add them to our list.

Further, if you feel drawn to this ministry, please call the Parish Center to obtain Mike’s and Judy’s contact information so you can talk with them personally about the Outreach program.

Parish NewsOutreach by Betty Schartl

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St. Peter’s Catholic Church St. Peter’s Elementary/Montessori St. Peter’s High School/Junior High Mansfield St. Peter’s Alumni

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The word “Maestro” in no way adequately identifies Bill Johnson, Director of Music and Liturgy at St. Peter’s Catholic Church. He is so much more than a master of music, although if you talk to him, he would tell you that he considers himself not so much a master as a servant to the parish.

In fact, the scope of his service is endless. To begin with, Bill collaborates closely with Father Hite and Father Jeremy who keep a guiding hand on the pulse of the parish. Bill’s efforts to expand the horizons and talents of St. Peter’s are an ongoing process.

Bill was born in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, but he considers Mansfield and Richland County as home because his best memories are of this area. His mother was from Mansfield and his father from Texas. His father was serving with the military and stationed at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle when Bill was born.

Bill has been Director of Music and principal organist at St. Peter’s Parish in Mansfield, Ohio, since 2004 and Director of Liturgy since 2005, after being so appointed by Father Tony Borgia. He previously served as Music Director and Liturgist at Columbus Holy Name Parish and as organist at Our Lady of Victory Parish and St. John the Baptist Parish in Columbus. Bill says it has always been his dream to return to Mansfield St. Peter’s and serve our parish. That dream has since been fulfilled in a most positive manner with the parishioners of St. Peter’s becoming the beneficiaries of his talents and guidance.

In his capacity as Director of Music, Bill leads the parish Traditional Choir (50 voices) in preparation and performance of an average 45 choral anthems and two concerts per year. He oversees training and preparation of the parish’s 20 cantors and also directs the parish Hand Bell Choir, the St. Peter’s Contemporary Ensemble, Schola Cantorum, Funeral Choir and the St. Peter’s High School

Liturgical Music Ensemble. He has also served as a member of the Diocesan Music Committee of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Toledo.

In addition, Bill directed the St. Peter’s High School Pep Band, Concert Band, and Elementary Bands as a substitute. He is active as a

teacher of organ, piano and vocal music and has taught General Music and Spanish at St. Peter’s Junior High School

Bill has headed the St. Peter’s Music Series for the past nine years and, under his guidance, has taken the program to new heights. The Music Series offers excellence and variety in music for all ages.

He has also been instrumental, not only in encouraging, but developing the untapped musical talents of the parish. In speaking with some of the students who have benefitted from Bill’s guidance, eighth grader, Emily Raff, states she has not only gained a respect for the power of music but has learned to recognize the healing effect of music in a person’s life. Because of the support she gained and the appreciation of music Bill instilled in her, she has come to see the magnitude of outreach in music, resulting in her decision to follow music as a career in her life.

Some of the other numerous students who have benefitted from Bill’s musical guidance are Steve Neihi, Nick Capaldo, Beth Clark and Christian Hall, to name just a few. Noah Dillinger remarks that Bill always gives 110% in everything he does, thereby serving as an inspiration to others. Jim Cox from the parish says Bill offered invaluable assistance in the preparation and presentation of numerous parish musicals. He defines Bill as hard working, honest and talented to the utmost. Incidentally, the next scheduled musical is “Annie”.

As Director of Liturgy at St. Peter’s, Bill oversees with Angie Dillon, the Assistant Liturgy Director and Ministry Scheduler whom Bill describes as

his right hand, liaison with wedding coordinators, Children’s Liturgy of the Word volunteers, Parish Liturgy Committee, lector workshops and training, usher training, altar server training, extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion training, certification and liaison and training for hospital visitors, homebound visitors and nursing home visitors ... and the list goes on.

Parishioner Becky Rader says that Bill brings a sense of spiritual perception to the Mass and as a lector, it becomes more meaningful to her personally, making her want to be a better lector. Incidentally, she shares a birthday, January 14, with Bill as well.

Bill is well versed in several foreign languages. He is a teacher, a writer and multi-talented person who considers himself one of the luckiest men alive to be doing the thing he loves to do by his call to ministry and service at St. Peter’s Parish. In the writer’s opinion, I consider it a double blessing, one to him who gives and those of us at the parish who receive, as we offer a big “thank you” to one who does so much. By the way, have you ever heard Bill sing the Ave Maria or Panis Angelicus at a funeral Mass? Trust me. There are few dry eyes in the congregation when this occurs.

When asked of his biggest challenge, Bill responded, “Not having enough hours in the day to serve our large and vibrant parish which is teaming with potential and possibilities and taking advantage of the resources that exist.”

So, again, thank you, Gentle Giant, for your irreplaceable service to St. Peter’s and for all that you do!

Parish News Maestro by Betty Schartl

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“With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find her parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan’s evil machinations and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. She finds a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy” (credit: Music Theater International).

Just prior to the holiday season, nearly 80 folks auditioned for St. Peter’s Parish production of “Annie”. Elementary school students, high school students and adults in the parish stopped by one of three nights and auditioned with a song and a short piece to read. High school senior Claire Phillips provided piano accompaniment. Not unexpectedly, there were a few delightful surprises along the lines of “I had no idea you could sing!” One mother was amazed that her otherwise shy, reserved daughter actually got on stage to audition – not for lack of belief in her daughter, just a parents’ reaction to the wonderment of children. And, I think, a demonstration of the positive power of theater to inspire.

Continuing a philosophy of inclusiveness and utilizing a double-casting approach, all who auditioned were cast in character and chorus parts. High school students will fill most of the primary roles. Marissa Levendoski and Lucia Rice will play the ebullient Annie. Grace Farrell will be portrayed by Marrin Eighinger and Claire Phillips. Madeline Carter and AnnMarie Hill will fill the shoes of the raucous and completely disagreeable Miss Hannigan. Her brother, the rascal Rooster, will be brought to life by Isaiah Corso-Phinney and Nathan Freshwater. Sydney Genter and Emily Raff will play the role of the questionable Lily St. Regis. And the timeless “Daddy Warbucks” will be portrayed by Christian Hall. Two of the Parish’s more seasoned individuals will play the role of president Franklin D. Roosevelt: Tom Fesler and Dave Lorenz (you don’t want to miss this!). Many other wonderful youth play orphans and urchins, and several others portray various roles as Hooverville-ites, NYC passerby’s and radio personas.

As in past years, audiences will be treated to a live orchestra,

which will be conducted by Bill Johnson the Director of St. Peter’s Parish Music and Liturgy. Jennifer Doyle-Latham, Ballet Mistress/Outreach Coordinator of the Ashland Regional Ballet, will once again provide the wonderful dance

choreography as she most recently did with last year’s The Sound of Music.

Six performances of Annie are booked for April 17, 18, 24 and 25, with matinee performances on April 19 and 26. Tickets cost $8, $10 and $12. A scrumptious “Annie Dinner” will be served Tuesday, April 21, where actors will sing and perform vignettes from Annie on set during dessert. The special dinner is being planned and catered by Beth Carter, Claudia Raff and

many friends and it will be a blast! Tickets for performances and the dinner will be available in the Parish Center office beginning in March. Opportunities exist to assist with set building, props, advertising, the dinner, etc.

Oh, and did I mention a special four-legged cast member will be joining us from J R’s Golden Angel’s Lodge in Bellville?!

Come see the musical “Annie”, a fun-filled, high-energy and touching musical brought to you by amazing and talented St. Peter’s Parish folks!

Parish NewsLeapin’ Lizards! “Annie” On Stage at St. Peter’s this Spring!by Jim Cox (Theater Director)

Scan for St. Peter’s Parish/School website

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Parish NewsSmileby Sharon Santoro

Our Pastor, Father Gregory Hite, decided it was time for an updated parish directory and asked Lori and Bill Danuloff and Sharon and Michael Santoro to co-chair a committee to publish the 2015 St. Peter’s Parish Pictorial Directory. Both Father Hite and Father Jeremy told us the directory is one of the first books they look for at a new parish. They both agree it is a quick way of putting a face with a name while trying to get acquainted with parishioners. Our new principals also agreed the directory helps them recognize their students and their families.

A sub-committee was quickly formed with Dave Barber as photography days coordinator, Debbie Bichimer-photography coordinator, Kristin Blunk-photography appointments coordinator, Cheryl Gurski-calling committee coordinator and Lynne Lukach as proofreader and communications coordinator.

The committee is working closely with the Lifetouch Family Photography Team to create our directory and show our parish family through photographs. Lifetouch has been a trusted provider of family photography for over 75 years.

Each family who has their pictures taken by Lifetouch will receive a free 8 x 10 portrait and directory. Our parishioners will be professionally photographed, will immediately

view their portraits and will have the opportunity to purchase additional portraits. You may invite grandparents and other family members and loved ones to join your portrait sitting—even if they are not members of the parish. You may bring your household pet to your portrait session. We know pets are part of the family. You may also consider bringing meaningful items that express your individuality. Some popular choices are sports equipment, musical instruments, hobby items and special toys or books. These portraits are valued family keepsakes.

This edition enables our parishioners to schedule their own portrait times and dates, online. You can access the schedule online by going to the Parish page of the St. Peter’s website (www.mansfieldstpeters.org) or directly (https://www.securedata-trans14.com/ap/stpeterscatholicchurch3/index.php?page=10). We encourage all our parishioners, college students, those serving on active duty in our military and our parishioners who are homebound or in a nursing care facility

to check our bulletins for the dates and times and sign up early to schedule a photography appointment during the months of March, April and May.

The photography sessions will be held in the St. Clare Room which is located on the east side, lower level, of the Franciscan Activity Center.

We invite and hope all our parishioners will schedule a portrait appointment. We need you to make our new family directory complete.

Our parish photographers who have volunteered to contribute their time and talent to make us look our best at the events and activities of St. Peter’s are Sister Bernard Marie Campbell, Paul Adamescu, Kelly Cropp, Dr. David Fleming, Fran Leitenberger and Jerry Smutylo. Claudia Raff, our parish secretary, with a special calling, has volunteered to photograph the homebound and those in a nursing care facility. You may contact her by calling St. Peter’s Parish Center at 419-524-2572.

We look forward to seeing you!

Giving to Our FutureOnce you have made provision for your loved ones, you have the

opportunity to make a lasting gift by leaving a legacy to St. Peter’s Parish. Leaving a gift in your will to St. Peter’s is one of the most valuable and lasting ways you can continue to support the work of our parish.

Your gift is an expression of your gratitude and thanksgiving towards God and will help maintain and enhance our church and our many ministries.

Thanks you for remembering St. Peter’s Parish.

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Toward the end of 2014 John Kastelic, your Finance Council Chairperson, and I spoke at all the weekend Masses. We summarized the fiscal year Financials (July 2013 – June 2014) and previewed the current fiscal year (July 2014 – June 2015) Budget. This was the third consecutive year in which we finished the year in the black – more income than expenses. As I mentioned at the Masses, just a few short years ago we finished the year with a net loss of nearly $500,000. Thank you to the members of the Finance Council, the Budget Committee, Father Hite, and John Kastelic for their support, guidance and diligence throughout the year.

In this first bulletin column of the year, I would like to briefly highlight some of the accomplishments achieved in the 2014 calendar year. The year 2014 was the first in quite a long time where we did not owe the Diocese of Toledo any money. The loan to pay off the nearly $1 million dollar debt is gone and all 2014 assessments ($97,835) and insurance ($36,000) were again paid to the Diocese.

Our renewed Cemeteries Committee was very active and successful last year. When I started in this position a couple years ago, the Parish owed the Mansfield Cemetery Association over $26,000 for maintenance at Mansfield Catholic

Cemetery. We received our last invoice at the end of December and we sent a check to the Association which takes us out of the red! This was accomplished with efficient budgeting, increased lot sales, and a successful Open House at Prince of Peace Cemetery in the spring of 2014. We have wonderful plans for 2015 and you will hear about those soon. Thank you to Dave Barber for productively chairing the Cemeteries Committee.

Safety and Security were a major focus in 2014. Spartan Fields has new security cameras. The Elementary School received a new and improved camera/security system. The 104 West First Street building which houses the Parish Center, High School, Junior High, San Damiano Hall, 4th Floor Parish Staff offices, and most importantly, our Convent now has an extensive security and surveillance system. Several cameras are located inside the building and other cameras situated outside the building. We have the capability to look at all the cameras on our computer desktops, record, and “rewind” to see what was captured on camera. We have actually had that need a couple times already. I envision 2015 will see even more cameras throughout our campus.

The Properties Committee targeted and achieved many repair and

maintenance projects during 2014. The 11x17 spreadsheet of planned projects always gives me nightmares. Significant masonry and roofing work was completed on the Church, Elementary School and High School buildings. The first grade classrooms began the school year with new tile floors as the ancient flooring has finally been replaced. Thank you, Monty Friebel, our Properties Committee Chair, for your dedication to St. Peter’s and your steadfast determination to improve and secure our campus and our buildings.

The Building Improvement Fund began in early 2014. Projects already complete include updating the flushometers in the 1st floor girls restroom in the High School and the Convent. We have received enough in the Building Improvement Fund to commence the Church basement bathroom projects. The single side bathrooms were being updated and reconstructed in November and December. The large bathroom project should begin in January 2015. We are all anxious for that completed project to be a significant improvement to our Church and a benefit to our parishioners in 2015.

Thank you for your contributions to that important fund.

Best Wishes for a healthy and prosperous new year!

Parish News Financials by Jerry Straub

In 2015, the Joliet Franciscans will be celebrating their 150th anniversary of ministry in the United States.

Here in Mansfield, we will be celebrating with our dear Franciscan Sisters, Sister Bernard Marie Campbell and Sister Paula Bingert along with Sister Irene Yosick from Shelby. On April 19, 2015, we will share in their celebration at the 11:30 a.m. Mass here at St. Peter’s Church and a reception will follow in the Franciscan Activity Center. All are invited to attend.

For many Franciscan Sisters, a good number of those 150 years were spent here at St. Peter’s with you—in fact, 144 years to be exact. From these 144 years, would you share your memories? Perhaps your parents or grandparents told you stories. Please share them for the celebration.

Mail your memories to Kathy Morris at St. Peter’s Parish Center, 104 W. First Street, Mansfield, OH 44902 or email Kathy at morris.kathy@myspartans.org. All memories shared will be displayed at the reception.

Thank you!

Franciscan Sisters 150th Anniversary Celebration

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BUILDING IMPROVEMENT FUND - 2014

Weekly Regular Sunday Offering 2013 ..................... $1,113,011.09 Average Weekly Regular Sunday Offering 2013 ......... $21,404.06 # of Sundays in 2013 = 52Christmas & Easter for 2013 ................................................ $91,647.07 TOTAL Collections for 2013 ........................................... $1,204,658.16

Weekly Regular Sunday Offering 2014 ..................... $1,096,517.26 Average Weekly Regular Sunday Offering 2014 ......... $21,086.87 # of Sundays in 2014 = 52Christmas & Easter for 2014 ................................................ $97,063.13 TOTAL Collections for 2014 ........................................... $1,193,580.39

Average Weekly Collections 2014 vs 2013 ............................. i1.5% down about $317 / week

Christmas (Calendar Year) 2013 ......................................... $53,359.54 Easter 2013 ............................................................................... $38,287.53 TOTAL Christmas & Easter 2013 ......................................... $91,647.07

Christmas (Calendar Year) 2014 ......................................... $57,274.43 Easter 2014 ............................................................................... $39,788.70 TOTAL Christmas & Easter 2014 ......................................... $97,063.13

Christmas & Easter 2014 vs 2013 ............................................... h5.9%

BUILDING IMPROVEMENT FUND - 2014Building Improvement Fund for 2014 ............................ $58,387.55 Monthly Average for 2014......................................................$5,307.96

ON-LINE GIVING STATISTICS - 2014Total $ Amount Given for 2014.......................................... $11,247.50 Number of Users ...................................................................................... 40Average $ Amount per User ..................................................... $281.19Number of Transactions ......................................................................154Average $ Amount per Transaction ..........................................$73.04

Prepared by Jerry Straub, Business Manager

Weekly Offering Statistics – 2014The regular Sunday weekly offering collection for 2014 was $16,493.83 below 2013. The average Sunday weekly collection in 2014 was 1.5% less than the previous year. That is down about $317 a week from 2013.

Christmas & Easter Statistics – 2014The Christmas & Easter figures include only those Christmas offerings collected during the 2014 calendar year. The total offering in 2014 was $5,416.06 more than Christmas & Easter in the 2013 calendar year.

That is a 5.9% improvement from last year. There are always a few Christmas envelopes that arrive in the month of January after Christmas. If we include those contributions the Christmas Season of 2014 will exceed $60,000.

Building Improvement Fund – 2014Through your generous donations toward the Building Improvement Fund the amount contributed to help improve our campus buildings totaled $58,387.55 in the calendar year 2014. That is an average of $5,308 per month. Thank You!!!

On-Line Giving Statistics – 2014We started our on-line giving program in April 2013. Parishioners and friends of St. Peter’s Parish & School can now donate to their favorite giving opportunity via our school/parish website.

The amount given on-line in 2014 was $11,247.50. During the calendar year 40 people have given on-line averaging $281 per donor. Of those 40 people there have been 154 different transactions with the average gift amount about $73. As you can tell from those figures we have a combination of one-time donors and people that have monthly or recurring gifts designated.

We will continue to promote this on-line giving opportunity in 2015 especially for those patrons and alumni who do not live in the Mansfield area.

Parish News

A Student Encountering Christ!!by Father Jeremy Miller and Olivia Haller

Olivia Haller, a senior at St. Peter’s High School, inquired last year about entering into full communion with the Catholic Church. She had encountered the Lord in a deeper way in her life and was attracted to the Catholic faith. She had been baptized in another Christian denomination and had been through 12 years of Catholic education, and she was finally ready to make the leap of faith. When I asked her when she would like to do this, she mentioned the possibility of a high school Mass with all of her peers present. I thought this was a great idea and I asked her if she would be willing to speak to her fellow students after her full reception in the faith. She agreed, and so in the presence of her family and her high school peers, she delivered these moving words:

Hi EveryoneFather Jeremy asked me to speak to all of you about why I

made my decision to become Catholic and what I value most about my relationship with Christ. Unlike many students here, I was not raised in a practicing Catholic family. I was baptized Presbyterian, but received First Communion in Second Grade. It was in fourth grade that I questioned my decision on whether my intentions of joining the Catholic faith were pure or superficial. It was that year that I stopped participating in the sacrament of the Eucharist. I was extremely confused on what religious affiliation I wanted to be a part of. I was worried that God was angry that I was baptized Presbyterian, yet, had my first communion. I really didn’t know what to make of myself. I was “presbycatholic” I guess you could say. When 8th grade confirmation classes began, I did not attend.

I was still extremely unsure of the religious faith I wanted to be a part of. During this time in my life I also wasn’t participating in any sort of church functions. I wasn’t going to church; I wasn’t involved in any youth groups and I most certainly didn’t talk about God or my relationship with Him to anyone. The fact was, I didn’t have any sort of relationship with Him.

It wasn’t until my junior year that I found the direction that I was being led in. Throughout the 2013-2014 school year, Father Jeremy offered the opportunity to go with him and other students to a religious function called “Ignite” in Fostoria, Ohio. I did not attend the first one, and admit that I even poked fun at some of my friends who did. But when they returned, I heard nothing but great reviews. Unfortunately the next one wasn’t until after the annual retreat called Kairos. Luckily, I was fortunate enough

to be a part of the Junior Leaders (now Senior leaders) that were able to attend the Kairos with this past years graduating class. I can’t share what all happens at Kairos, but I most certainly can tell you that if you allow it to, it will change your life. The word Kairos essentially means “God’s time” and I promise you, God’s time is time well spent! It was through Kairos that a spark was lit inside me. A spark that has led me today, to becoming Catholic. After Kairos, I attended 3 Ignites, which essentially are a time of adoration of the Eucharist. I also attended the Steubenville Youth Conference at Franciscan University this summer. I’ve continuously attended Mass since April of last year, and have had the honor to encourage my dad to attend Mass with me as well … something he hasn’t done regularly since he was my age. At each Catholic event, I found myself growing more and more envious of those receiving the Eucharist, receiving the gift of Penance, and just being full members of the Catholic faith. It was through these events after and including Kairos, that I was sure that I wanted to become confirmed into the Catholic Church.

So what do I value in my relationship with Christ? The most cherishable gift he has given me is fullness. Before finding myself in God, I was constantly angry, stressed, or anxious. God filled the hole that these emotions created with peace and tranquility. Something my mom constantly reminds me of is when I feel this way I “give it all to God.” I really do encourage everyone to find a specific thing they value through Christ. Maybe you don’t believe in God. That’s okay because God gave us this awesome thing called free will. It’s okay to love God and to love Christ and to love the Church. It’s not un-cool. Trust me, I struggle with that, too. What if I’m labeled a “Jesus Freak” but who cares? And for those who don’t want a relationship with Christ, don’t make fun of those who do. Support them, regardless if it goes against what you believe. Christ really can be your best friend, and I really hope that each and every one of you, some day, is able to find a relationship with Christ and can truly cherish your relationship with Him, because quite frankly, it’s awesome! Thank you all for being a part of such a momentous moment of my life. It’s one I won’t ever forget and am proud I can say I shared with the St. Pete’s Community.

~ Olivia Haller, October 9, 2014 St. Peter’s Class of 2015

10 www.mansfieldstpeters.org

Parish News

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all of you for your continuing support and contributions to the monthly Building Improvements Fund and for your response to the Building the Kingdom presentation held last spring.

First, with regards to our Building Improvement Fund, we have collected $48,750 and have used $2,015 thus far towards improving the church basement restrooms and $6,456 for repairs in the convent and high school. After the single use restrooms are updated we will begin renovating the larger men‘s and women’s restrooms. We estimate it will take a total of $35,000 to complete this project leaving an estimated balance of $7,294.

Second, let’s look at the revenue generated from the Building the Kingdom presentation. As many of you are aware, most of our repairs and maintenance projects take place during the summer when the schools are not in session. Our budget for this year was $175,000 and after deducting $60,000 to cover routine, recurring & unexpected items we had $115,000 for projects. But, we needed to complete $160,000 in projects and this left a shortfall of $45,000. When we brought this to your attention in the spring of this year, you helped raise an additional $81,650 following the Building the Kingdom appeal. Because of your generosity, we will have an estimated remaining balance of $36,650 after this year’s projects are completed.

As of October 31, 2014, the total remaining revenue from both funds is $43,944.

Our budget year, which begins on July 1st, is only approaching the half-way mark. And as many of you know, we’ve had several maintenance challenges in recent weeks. The lack of heat in the church required immediate attention and the sound system in our Church has had more than its share of problems. Both of these areas are being addressed by the Properties and Finance Committees. We are sincerely grateful for their time and effort as well as for your support.

Thank you again for your patience and consideration. We will continue to update you on steps being taken to manage both our funding and maintenance challenges.

Respectfully yours,

Fr. Gregory Hite - Pastor and Superintendent John Kastelic - FinanceMonty Friebel - PropertiesJerry Straub - Business Manager

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DevelopmentJust So You Know

Position Opening

Director of DevelopmentIn addition to being Catholic, and preferably a graduate of Catholic elementary and/or high school, the candidate for the position should:

• Be highly interested in perpetuating the values of Catholic education

• Hold a degree from an accredited college or university

• Be a self-starter working independently as well as collaboratively

• Have the ability to work well with a wide variety of people

• Possess skill and proficiency in writing and social media

If you are interested in applying for this full-time position, please respond with your resume to Cathy Stout, St. Peter’s Development Office, 104 West First Street, Mansfield, Ohio 44902. You may also e-mail your resume to humanresources@myspartans.org.

Annual Tuition Drive 2015-2016!

Thank you to those of you who have contributed to our Annual Tuition Drive! Our goal this year is $150,000. To date, we have received $97,483.94 from 523 donors!

Every year we have households who are, for one reason or another, in very real need of a hand up. Your contribution helps these families ensure that their children can continue to receive an education of faith and formation in St. Peter’s School. On their behalf, please accept our sincere appreciation!

It has been said the one true constant in life is change. That is especially true with St. Peter’s athletics this winter. Athletic director (Frank Gordon) and assistant athletic director (David Miller) are in their first year of running the department. This is the first year that St. Peter’s High School and Junior High athletic departments have been combined. There are now 19 different teams under the direction of the newly configured athletic department for the winter season. This change has kept our teams brimming with enthusiasm and gives them an eye on the future at the same time.

Speaking of change, the high school basketball programs are experiencing positive growth due to change. The girls’ program headed by Shani Rush, in her second year, continues to improve even while experiencing a rash of injuries and illnesses. The girls’ staff has made a change with former junior varsity head coach Tom Blunk becoming the varsity assistant and former varsity assistant Tim

Mulherin taking the reins of the junior varsity team.

On the boys’ high school side, head coach Joe Jakubick has been welcomed aboard. Joining coach Jakubick in his first year on staff are varsity assistant coach John Bryant and junior varsity head coach Tracy Richards. Freshman coach Joe Mulherin was retained from the previous staff. This change has brought positive energy and a new approach to the boys’ program.

The Spartan swim program continues to evolve under head coach Tom Finnerty and assistant coach Jeff Dropsey. Though their dedication and guidance has never wavered, they have had to find a different way to run a program which does not have the accustomed number of swimmers that they are used to.

St. Peter’s junior varsity cheerleading advisers Aimee Jerger and Traci Mason, and varsity cheerleading adviser Anita Branham are also in their first seasons.

This transition has brought a fresh approach to how our cheerleaders perform and practice.

The St. Peter’s Junior High and Elementary School teams are also forging new ground with various coaches in new positions. Their dedication and efforts are making a difference as they become accustomed to doing things in a different way.

As the Spartan athletic programs strive to improve, change is inevitable. So far, change is good.

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Winter SportsSchool News

www.mansfieldstpeters.org

Frank Gordon David Miller

In Memoriam by Sister Bernard Marie Campbell

Raymond Bair ’45, father of Steven Bair ’69.

Margaret Them McElroy ’45.

Jane Keller Patton ’49.

Anna Romano Delianides ’43, sister of Rose “Tootsie” Hess ’47.

Manuela “Nellie” Cochran, mother of Linda Sue Freeman ’72 and George R. Cochran ’73.

Margaret Josephine (Marjo) King Cavanaugh ‘53 , sister of Mary Ellen Miller ’62, John, Judith Castle ’64, Mimi King ’67, George King ’69, and Angela Johannessen ’72.

Mary Lou Reilly, mother of Lida Heydinger ’67, Jamie Akers ’72, Kathleen Glaze ’74, Ellen Harris ’76 and Sheila Young ’82.

Gregory Lesch, husband of Patricia Butterfield Lesch ’45.

Cara Gordon Bosso ’98.

Mary Seckel, sister of Elizabeth Shasky ’63, Constance Seckel ’68 and Daniel Seckel ’70.

Paul Finlayson ’72, brother of Beth McClain ’73.

Phillip Kasper ’79, brother of Elizabeth Schaffer ’64, Anthony ‘ 66, Frances Miller ’69, Theresa Smith ’72, and Regina Gulley ’75.

David Oswalt, son of Linda Guisinger Oswalt ’64.

Carolyn Elizabeth Them Miller ’44.

Patricia Butterfield Lesch ’45.

Belinda (Lindy) Lump Demyan ’50, sister of Beverly Perry ’55, Barbara Kaufman ’58, and John ’63.

Mary Margaret Timmer Ebert ’65, wife of Thomas M. Ebert ’66.

Jayne E. Schroeder, mother of Gary ’66.

Richard Marshall ’52.

Albert Togliatti, father of Gigi Rice ’82, Dante ’84, and Rodney ’86.

John Wendling ’64, brother of Joseph ’65, James ’67, Jan ’68 and Renatta York ’70.

Joseph Hess, father of Tukka ’96.

Richard G. Hite, father of our pastor Father Gregory Hite.

Mary “Angie” Aplin, mother of Sean ’00.

Mary Margaret “Marty” Metzger ’44, sister of Elizabeth Risacher ’43 and Michael McDevitt ’52.

James Knapp ’54.

Megan Elizabeth Smith, daughter of John ’77 and Tamara Smith.

“MONTESSORI KIDS AT WORK NIGHT”Thursday, February 26, 6:00-7:00 p.m.Montessori House tour, meet teachers,

see the Montessori students doing “works”!Please call 419-524-3351 if planning to attend!

“OPEN HOUSE & REGISTRATION”Sunday, March 8

Tour, meet teachers, info on tuition assistance and School Choice scholarships, register!

Montessori - K/KE - Elementary, 1:00-3:00 p.m.Junior High & High School, 2:00-4:00 p.m.

“KINDERGARTENER FOR AN EVENING”Thursday, March 19, 5:45-6:45 p.m.

Pizza dinner for the family, meet teachers, program info!

Please call 419-524-3351 if planning to attend!

“We view Catholic schools as the complete package. The schools provide an excellent academic experience, but more importantly, the foundation on which they are based is a living faith in Jesus Christ. Our children’s entire beings, their minds, emotions, and souls, are nourished by Catholic schools. Paying for a Catholic education is not cheap. But if you believe that your children are your most important asset, and we certainly do, the money you spend on a Catholic education is the best investment you’ll ever make.”

Jim Phinney and Ginny Corso, Parents of Eli ’06, Micah ’12, Isaiah ’15

’01 … Brooke (Spires) Unger is currently working for St. Peter’s High School and Junior High as a tutor. She has a degree in educational assisting and a certificate in behavior management from North Central State College. She is also serving as a leader for La Leche League of Richland County. Brooke and her husband, Garrett, live in Bellville with their 2-year-old daughter, Amelia.

The Class of 2004 gathered for their 10-year reunion on November 26 at City Grille. This photo was submitted by Angela Rosato Mulherin who said the group had a great time and is looking forward to the next time they can get together.

‘14 … Joseph Rall is studying biology in the pre-med program at Franciscan University of Steubenville and is also playing basketball there. In addition, he is pursuing one of his lifelong goals. “For as long as I can remember, it has been my dream to become a doctor and do mission work,” he writes. “This spring, I will have the opportunity to go on my first mission trip! I will be going to Ecuador on a medical mission that seeks to meet the physical and spiritual needs of the poor in the rural villages of the Amazon Rainforest.” The trip is sponsored by Franciscan’s Missions of Peace program and Joseph’s mission team is actively raising money to support their efforts. To find out more, go to this link: http://www.gofundme.com/fyi6a8.

’99 … Joe Mulherin and his wife, Angela Rosato (‘04), welcomed their first child, Oliver Rosato Mulherin on December 13. Oliver has already enjoyed watching his dad coach some St. Peter’s basketball games!

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SEND US YOUR NEWS! SEND US YOUR REUNION NOTICES!

Hello Alumni! If you have any news about you and/or your family to share with your fellow alumni,

please send information along with a jpeg photo if you like to:

failor.michelle@myspartans.org or mail to: Alumni Office, St. Peter’s Parish Center,

104 W. First Street, Mansfield, OH 44902.

Does your class have a reunion planned? If so, and if you would like us to publicize in our June

2015 issue, send us the details and we’ll be happy to give your classmates a heads up on the plans!

Mail to: Alumni Office, St. Peter’s Parish Center 104 W. First Street, Mansfield, OH 44902 or email: failor.

michelle@myspartans.org.

Alumni Updatesby Michelle Failor ’94

Joseph Rall will travel to Ecuador on a medical mission.

Class of 2004 10-year reunion

CLASS OF ’65The Class of ’65 is planning its 50th reunion celebration

for 2015. Mark your calendars for the weekend of September 26, 2015, for the Golden Celebration! Mary (Olivieri) Lewis would love to hear from classmates—especially if you have information on classmates who aren’t on the contact list: Jann Wack Coltaire, Ted Dillon, Dorothy Minock Goodwin, Pam Carey Smith, Gloria Poland Steward, and Christine Emerine Wetzel. Please send emails, address updates and ideas to Dave Hornung, hornungdm@hotmail.com or Mary at marylws@yahoo.com.

Alumni Events Reunions

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COLUMBUS GATHERING

On Thursday, October 23, over 20 St. Peter’s alumni from various graduating classes gathered at the Rusty Bucket in Worthington Hills. The “upper room” was the spot for a fun evening and an opportunity for alum to meet some “newbies” to the Spartan family: Principal Mike Wasiniak and Varsity Boys’ Basketball Coach, Joe Jakubick. Also in attendance, and ever faithful to our Alma Mater, were Father Gregory Hite, the incomparable Sister Bernard Marie Campbell and one of St. Peter’s best theology teachers and wits of all time, Mike Mulherin ‘74. Host and hostess for the evening were Steve Hawkins ‘90 and his lovely wife, Angela Taneja. If you missed it this year, don’t worry, you can catch us next year! Keep your eyes open for word from Steve, Angela and Ezra Escudero ‘92—here in FAMILY Magazine and on our Alumni Facebook page and, of course, the St. Peter’s website, www.mansfieldstpeters.org

by Mark Forster, Class of ‘93

On the day after Thanksgiving, a motley assortment of Spartan alums and hangers-on gathered at Maple Lake Park in Mansfield for the annual Turkey Bowl. This year’s installment, the 46th in this magnificent tradition, was blessed with great weather, good food, wonderful people, and of course, FOOTBALL! It was a year of transition of sorts, as the Bowl missed longtime participant and Executive Legal Counsel Patrick Bitar; here’s hoping his Thanksgiving travel plans in the future will include a stop in Mansfield. Commissioner Mark Forster and VP of Football Operations Frank Stout were able to continue the glory unabated however – the Turkey Bowl is as strong as ever as it steamrolls its way toward 50 years!

This year saw many old veterans with not very many new participants. With the combined decades of experience on

the field, it was no surprise that the skill level was on par with only the best NFL teams. Remember, any Spartan alum, young or old, is welcome to play, so come on down next year!

If you’d like more information, please contact Mark Forster (mm.forster@yahoo.com) or Frank Stout (frank.stout@yahoo.com) and we’ll be happy to hook you up!

TurkeyBowl

Visit us on our official Facebook pages!

St. Peter’s Catholic Church St. Peter’s Elementary/Montessori St. Peter’s High School/Junior High Mansfield St. Peter’s Alumni

Non-Prof. OrgU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDMansfield, OhioPermit No. 772

St. Peter’s Parish104 W. First StreetMansfield, OH 44902

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

NAME: _________________________________________________

ADDRESS: ______________________________________________

CITY/STATE/ZIP: _________________________________________

PHONE: CELL: ___________________________________________

EMAIL: _________________________________________________

ST. PETER’S GRADUATING CLASS: ___________________________

Do you want email listed on the St. Peter’s Alumni website? ______

EMPLOYER: _____________________________________________

PROFESSION/OCCUPATION: ________________________________

MARITAL STATUS: ________________________________________

MAIDEN NAME: __________________________________________

SPOUSE’S NAME: ________________________________________

ALUMNI UPDATEPlease help us update our files with any name, address, or phone number changes. If your class is planning a reunion, let us know. Submit a memoriam, tell us about your family, your job or just life in general. Send your information electronically to: stout.cathy@myspartans.org. You may also mail information to: Development/Alumni Office, St. Peter’s Parish Center, 104 West First Street, Mansfield, OH 44902.

February 2015

ADDITIONAL NEWS:

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ THANK YOU!

Make sure to check the St. Peter’s Parish and School Facebook page to keep in touch and for the latest information about events and the Annual Tuition Drive.