Parish History (cont.)

St. Peter's Chapel was erected a Parish by Bishop Joseph-Aurele Plourde, Archbishop of Ottawa on May 15th, 1981 and Reverend Paul Baxter was appointed the pastor following this change. Through his three years of ministry, Father Baxter helped to organize St. Peter's and to build it into a Parish. His work was a task of a pioneer. Parishioners remember him for his good heart and his dedication to them.

He received the title Monsignor, Prelate of Honor in 1996 while he was pastor at St. Patrick's Fallowfield. Monsignor Baxter passed away at St. Patrick's Fallowfield on October 9th, 1998.

In 1984 Reverend Donald Gavan was appointed pastor at St. Peter's Parish. He remained pastor for almost twelve years. Certainly during this period the Community reached its maturity as a Parish. Through Father Gavan's energy, his constant presence and care for his parishioners, the parish grew in strength and stability. Parishioners cherished his generosity, sense of humor and good homilies. To show their appreciation, the parish published these homilies. Father Gavan died on December 7th, 1997. He will be remembered for his care and affection toward his people.

On December 1996, Reverend Jacques Kabangu was appointed pastor at St. Peter's Parish. After almost six years at St. Peter's, Father Jacques Kabangu was named Rector of Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica on Sussex Drive on July 2002.

Reverend Jessimar Cavan Tapia was appointed pastor at St. Peter's Parish on July 1, 2002. Father Jessi served as an Associate Rector at St. Patrick's Basilica on Kent Street for two years (2000-2002) before he came to St. Peter's. Father Jessi served at St. Peter's Parish for seven years as its pastor.

On August 1, 2009, Reverend Joseph Vayalil will assume the responsibility as the new pastor here at St. Peter's. Father Joe served as an Associate Pastor at the Annunciation Parish in Ogilvie Rd., Ottawa.

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