Letter From Father Gagné

February 20, 2026

Dear Parishioners,

The universal Code of Canon Law requires a priest to submit a letter requesting retirement at the age of seventy-five. The long-standing practice of the Diocese of Providence has been to permit priests to retire from parish administration at the age of seventy. All priests who have reached the age of seventy-five are asked to meet with the bishop every year to discuss the best path forward and ensure that all matters are handled with respect for the priest and his ministry.

This past Thursday, I met with Bishop Lewandowski to discuss the above-mentioned concerns. As a result of this conversation, it was mutually agreed upon that I will continue to serve as pastor of St. Peter Parish and School for one more year. This time frame is from July 1 st, 2026, to June 30th, 2027. As mentioned above, I will meet with the bishop next year to revisit the possibility of retirement.

I look forward to serving as your pastor for as long as God allows me. Please pray that God will continue to bless me with the health and strength necessary to carry out the ministry of serving as your priest.

Thank you for your support, kindness and generosity that you have shared with me these past twenty-eight years. May God continue to bless the good work he has begun in us and see it to completion. You always have a remembrance in all my prayers and Masses. May the season of Lent be a source of grace and blessing for all the members of our parish and school families.

Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Rev. Roger C. Gagné