The servant of God Fr. Peter E. Gillquist departed this life at 9:20 p.m. on July 1, 2012, surrounded by family. He has finished the race. Memory eternal!
July 7, 2012
Last evening ended three days of services culminating in Fr. Peter’s burial at All Saints Orthodox Cemetery in Bloomington, IN. His Grace Bp. Anthony, who presided at the funeral service, delivered an inspiring, engaging and memorable eulogy. Fr. Gordon Walker preached a truly evangelistic homily at the preceding Divine Liturgy. The Audio for both, as well as Fr. Jon Braun’s tribute, can be found at Ancient Faith Radio (http://ancientfaith.com/specials/fr._peter_gillquist_memorial). Below you will see the tri-fold sunbeams caught on film by one of the faithful at the funeral service.
We will post more photos as they become available.
We are moved by your outpouring of love. Thank you for your kind words and sincere prayers!
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In lieu of flowers it is requested that memorial donations be made payable to All Saints Church (6004 So. Fairfax Rd, Bloomington, IN 47401). Funds will be split between the building funds of All Saints Church, Bloomington, Indiana, and St. Athanasius Church, Santa Barbara, California — Fr. Peter’s two “home parishes.”
Schedule of Services for Fr. Peter E. Gillquist – July 4-6, 2012
Wednesday, July 4
6:00 p.m. Public Visitation at All Saints in Bloomington
7:00 p.m. Trisagion Service
*All Night Vigil to Follow* (Reading of the Psalter)
Thursday, July 5
9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy in Bloomington (Followed by transport to Carmel, IN)
5:00 p.m. Public Visitation at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church (3500 W 106th St. Carmel, IN)
7:00 p.m. Trisagion Service
*All Night Vigil to Follow* (Reading of the Psalter)
Friday, July 6
9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy (His Grace Bishop Anthony Presiding)
11:00 a.m. Funeral Service followed by Mercy Meal at Holy Trinity GOC
3:30 p.m. Burial Service at All Saints Cemetery in Bloomington
Accommodations near Holy Trinity Church, Indianapolis/Carmel
The following hotels currently have rooms available for Thursday night, July 5.
Jamieson Inn
10201 N. Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46280
(317) 816-1616
Mention “$69 funeral rate”
Courtyard Marriott
10290 N. Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46290
(317) 571-1110
Mention “Fr. Peter Gillquist” to get special $79 rate
Embassy Suites Indianapolis – North
3912 Vincennes Rd.
Indianapolis, IN 46268
(317) 872-7700
$119 king room
$139 two queen beds
Drury Hotel
9310 N. Michigan Road
Indianapolis, IN 46268
(317) 876-9777
$87 for King or double
June 10, 2012
In 1999, Fr. Peter E. Gillquist (retired and attached to All Saints) was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma. Miraculously, he survived through the grace of God, the prayers of the saints, and the care of physicians. His prayer was to be given more time to assist in starting more mission churches, and to grow old with his wife, Khouria Marilyn.
Now, 13 years later, he has again been diagnosed with melanoma — only now stage 4. We are awaiting further word on a prognosis and possible treatment options. Scroll down to see any updates posted on this page. God bless you.
***For Immediate Release***
June 14, 2012…
The Very Rev. Fr. Peter E. Gillquist has been diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic melanoma. Fr. Peter survived a diagnosis of stage 3 melanoma in 1999 and another bout in 2010. He, Kh. Marilyn, and family await test results to determine treatment options in the management of this aggressive cancer.
The Gillquists request your prayers as they continue a lifelong journey of faith in the Great Physician, remembering that our communal prayer is for the healing of soul and body, and in the Lord’s time, a Christian ending to life, that is painless, blameless and peaceful.
Fr. Peter retired from 25 years of service to the Antiochian Archdiocese as Director of the Department of Missions and Evangelism in January. He is attached to All Saints Antiochian Orthodox Church in Bloomington, Indiana, where his son, Fr. Peter Jon, serves as pastor.
June 19, 2012
Fr. Peter is in the hospital tonight with a fever. His physician felt it would be the best place for him to receive care as the doctors search for a possible infection causing this elevated temperature. Thank you for your continued prayers.
June 20, 2012
Fr. Peter is still in the hospital. During tests early this morning to determine the cause of his fever, it was discovered that his cancer is moving even more quickly than anticipated, and has spread to some of his vital organs. Fr. Peter’s children are travelling now to be with him and Kh. Marilyn. Your prayers for their safe travel, and for Fr. Peter and Kh. Marilyn’s continued peace during this time of illness are appreciated.
June 22, 2012
Our family shared a special time in the hospital room with Fr. Peter this morning, reading aloud your kind words of encouragement which have been posted on this site. Thank you for your continued prayerful support.
June 24, 2012
Fr. Peter is still in the hospital, surrounded by his wife, children, and a grandchild who is carrying his first great-grandchild. More family will be en route to Bloomington throughout the week.
We discovered today that reading your posts is not only encouraging to Fr. Peter, but also a helpful diversion from his physical pain.
As will happen, it seems there is some mis-information being circulated on the internet regarding Fr. Peter’s condition. Please always refer to this site for up-to-date and accurate information from those at his bedside.
June 25, 2012
We have been anticipating test results regarding possible treatment options, and today we received news that no cancer treatment would be of positive effect in Fr. Peter’s case. Therefore, the emphasis of his care is on pain management and prayer, so we are working on both. Fr. Peter, Kh. Marilyn, and their children are strengthened through your prayers.
June 27. 2012
Fr. Peter is sleeping more and more each day. He will be transferred to a hospice facility this afternoon, where his family will continue to participate in his care and comfort management, together with a 24-hour nursing staff. Your continued prayers for a peaceful journey are appreciated more than you know.
June 29, 2012 – The Feast of Saints Peter and Paul
Blessed feast day, dad. Fr. Peter has been in a hospice facility since Wednesday afternoon. When our family first heard about a hospice house, we were unsure what to expect. What we have found has been a blessing beyond what we can express: a large living room with couches and a kitchenette, a smaller, intimate sitting room, a chapel, a sizible outdoor deck, and eight large bedrooms, most of which look out into the woods. Currently, only half of the rooms are occupied by patients. At the foot of Fr. Peter’s bed is a four foot wooden shelf, which holds icons of Christ, the Theotokos, St. Peter the Apostle, St. Nectarios, and many of the holy unmercinaries. Vigil lamps burn around the clock, and at least one family member is with Fr. Peter at all times.
Presently, Fr. Peter sleeps most of the day. When he is awake, he asks for prayer. The family gathers to pray and sing, and he sings with us. These are the things we will remember all our lives.
The prayers you offer and the words you post here are such a source of encouragement to all of us. Thank you for your love and support as we continue this journey together.
July 1, 2012 – Saints Cosmos and Damian
These are holy days. God is so merciful, loving, and compassionate.
After the Liturgy of Ss. Peter and Paul Thursday night, Fr. Peter asked for prayer at the Hospice House. Fr. Peter Jon arrived around 10 p.m. and asked, “Dad, would you like to receive communion tonight or tomorrow?” Fr. Peter stated clearly that he would like communion right away, so we began to pray and sing. Although it was becoming increasingly difficult for him to speak in complete sentences, Fr. Peter recited all the prayers by heart and sang perfect harmony with the communion hymns. Then he went to sleep. That is the last food he has consumed — the Bread of Life, and thr Fountain of Immortality.
Fr. Peter didn’t awaken again until the following evening at 9:00 p.m. (Friday), when the wheels of Fr. Gordon Walker’s car hit the driveway. Fr. Gordon had driven six hours to be with his friend of 50 years in his time of need. They talked a while, smiled a lot, and then Fr. Peter went back to sleep following evening prayers.
The following morning (Saturday), we all gathered in Fr. Peter’s room for morning prayers, as he slept. Around 3:00 p.m., Fr. Peter awoke and asked if Fr. Gordon would hear his confession, which he did. Then a call was placed to Fr. Jon Braun, and the three old friends shared a few minutes together, talking about heaven. Then Fr. Peter fell asleep again.
Since that time, his vitals have changed dramatically, and he appears to be making the final sprint for the finish line. “Finish the race” is what his family members whisper in his ear. We are gathered by his bedside in prayer, Scripture-reading, and song. Finish the race, dad. We love you so much.
July 1, 2012
The servant of God Fr. Peter E. Gillquist departed this life at 9:20 p.m. surrounded by family. He has finished the race. Memory eternal!
“Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life!”
Funeral arrangements will post tomorrow morning.
Dearest Gillquist family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Fr. Peter, you have been a part of my life for many, many years. I remember decorating a old coffee can in Alaska to collect money to bring you and “Dick Ballew” up for a visit. Even though there have been many memories along the way, that one sticks with me as well as your “Budweiser” song – “When you say Lord Jesus, you’ve said it all!”. You have not only touched, but profoundly changed many lives, mine included.
Kh. Luanne
Dearest Fr. Peter Sr., Kh. Marilyn, Fr. Peter, Kh. Kristina and all the Gilquist family,
Christ is in our midst! He is and always shall be! We are sending you big hugs and many prayers to all of you! Aboona, we love you very much and ask that Sts. Peter and Paul carry you and strengthen you during this very sacred time in your life. You have been a loving inspiration to us, as you have been to many others! From our family to yours and from the faithful of St. George Cathedral in Pittsburgh, “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”-1 Timothy 6:12
Dear Fr. Peter,
We thank our loving God for your life, ministry and your love for the Truth, the Orthodox Church, your family and your flock and the lost. We know that you will continue your work in God’s Heavenly Kingdom.
love and prayers in Christ,
Photini and Theophilus
Father Peter and Kh. Marilyn,
Father Bless. Our prayers are with you and your family. You have had a special place in our hearts all these years, for helping us to map out a route home to the Orthodox Church. God bless you in this most difficult time. We (The Autrey Family, Dale, Judy, Shane, Jared, and Jon) have so many great memories with you and your family that you have shared with us, we are so thankful and for ever in your debt. I thank you for your faithfulness and commitment to our family and our journey to Orthodoxy. You are and your family are in our prayers. May God have mercy on you and grant you strength and healing in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.
Fr. Peter:
Our prayers are with you that our Lord may give you healing, and you come and see us here in Waco, Texas and see St. Andrews mission, your prayers and courage strengthen our faith.
We love you and your family so dearly.
Rouba
Dear Abouna Peter,
I was, am honored to know you since I came to the States. You are a “treasure” to our Orthodox Church. May God keep you under his protection. We keep you in our prayers.
your brother in our Lord’s field,
Fr. Elie Estephan
with love and prayers from topeka, kansas. you came and showed us the way and our lives and families have been ever changed because of it. may God wrap you and your family in His loving arms as you journey home. thank you fr. peter…we love you and are ever so grateful for your sacrifices as a fisher of men!
Fr. Peter and Kh. Marilyn:
You are constantly in our prayers. Words cannot express our love and gratefulness for you. Your love, example and encouragement have and always will guide us. Fr. Peter, you are one of the foundation stones of Saint Ignatius. May God give you peace. We love you.
Dear Fr. Peter,
Oh how I love to hear you speak! I remember at the College Conference oh-so-many years ago how I knew there was no way I was going to miss your session! Your conviction and passion for the word of God has touch me so many times. Thank you for being a beacon in my spiritual journey. Thank you especially for your prayers for Jason and our family. I now offer my prayers for you and yours – God’s peace and love to you all.
Chelsea Klatt Beazley
Prayers for Fr. Peter, a man who has impacted many. Thanks for setting up this update page.
Dear Father Peter and family,
Please know that my and my family’s prayers are with you. You have been such a powerful influence in our lives in many ways. From listening to you speak up in Syracuse, NY in the late ’90’s, then again at St. Katherine’s Greek Orthodox Church in Falls Church, VA, to reading Becoming Orthodox, subscribing to AGAIN (awesome publication!!) for 3 years until it was discontinued 🙁 , to your son, Fr. Peter Jon’s CD’s, and the list goes on with the permanent mark you have left in our lives. I have learned so much from your “convert wisdom” that as a “cradle Orthodox” I would have probably NEVER have gleaned otherwise.
Rest assured that God has used you for the spiritual development and good of MULTITUDES of people. Most of us can only dream of being so instrumental in the conversion of SO many souls into salvation….WOW!
May Christ, our God and His Holy mother, the Theotokos care for and protect you and keep you at peace into eternity.
Please keep us in your prayers….they are so powerful.
With MUCH love and gratitude,
Kathy Kendrat and family
Dear Fr. Peter and Marilyn,
Our hearts are so full of love for you both! You have had a tremendouse impact on thousands and thousands of lives!! I have such fond memories of eating dinner at your home as a college student in the early ’80’s. I loved your family and adored Marilyn. She is amazing which I’m sure your whole family will agree! I thank God for both of you and the many sacrifices you and your family have made for the sake of His Church. We love you more than we can express!
In His Infinite Love,
Jeff & Karji Dunkle
Nashville, TN
Fr. Peter,
Our love goes out to you and Marilyn in this difficult time. I hope that you can hear this and understand. There have been so many years we have known each other and worked, at times, side by side. I can still remember the events at the student union at the University of Calif., Santa Barbara. You and Fr. Jack with me there announcing the gospel to a crowd of 70’s student rebels. I remember that I was scared to death trying to get an introduction out of my mouth to let you speak. Then there was the rise of the Campus Crusade movement on campus, and then the darker time with Edwards. But, the Holy Spirit was with you guys and we emerged from that dark time with your leadership. What an incredible era that was.
And, what an incredible continuing journey those events sparked. Over 40 years of searching to find and join the historic church. It has been my pleasure to have known you and to have worked with you over these many years. I still have a copy of the New Testament you gave to me, with your signature and blessing inside, after I blessed your home once in Isla Vista.
On the one hand I am pleased that you are with your son, but on the other hand I wish that we could have shared in your time and been there to comfort you and Marilyn. But, having family close is by far the better option.
I also will never forget you and your marvelous family and the role that I have had the blessing to perform with respect to a few of your children.
God bless you, Fr. Peter. God bless you beyond your, and our, wildest imagination. You deserve it.
Steve & Joan Thomas
Dearest Father Peter, Marilyn and Gillquist family,
We are holding your family up in our prayers both day and night. We pray that God will give you strength, faith and peace as you face the days ahead. We are also praying that Father Peter will be free of pain as he is surrounded by all those who love him on this earth and by the heavenly hosts that will take him to Glory.
Father Peter’s life as a husband, father, evangelist, missionary, and author has been an inspiration and role model to us and to countless other Christians throughout the country. We love you dearly and cherish the wonderful years that we have had together here in Santa Barbara.
May God bless you, and keep you and cause His face to shine upon you and grant you His peace.
With all of our love,
Dn.Howard and Gail
Dearest Fr. Peter and Kh. Marilyn,
Your friendship and support over all of these years has been one of the greatest blessings in our lives. We are so thankful to you for serving us so unselfishly and sacrificially during the recent 25th anniversary celebration of St. Peter’s. We will treasure that time with you for the rest of our lives. We love you and pray for you continually. Thank you for all that you have done for us. We will look forward to when we see you again, by God’s mercy, in the Eternal Kingdom. Your courage and pursuit of that in faith has been a great example for us all. God be with you.
I am shocked to hear this – I am just learning now about it. I haven’t met Father Peter, but like so many others, his book “Becoming Orthodox” was crucial in bringing me to the Orthodox church. So much so that I’ve donated it to local libraries and have extra copies in case I meet people who would be interested in it! My prayers are with Father Peter. A good Orthodox friend of mine is a 3 time survivor of cancer, one of which was melanoma…and now has pancreatic cancer. What is amazing is that it is very clear to see that through all of the many tremendous ups and downs she has had in life, she has now been granted the peace of the Lord in her soul. I hope this peace increases by the minute for Father Peter and his entire family. I just want him to know how much he has done for so many people – now and to come – by bringing them back home to the body of Christ.
Dear brother in Christ!
Glory to God in all things!
We continue to pray for you and your family.
Please pray for us.
Thank you, in Christ,
Father Boniface and Kh. Joyce
Lord have mercy on your faithful servant Father Peter. Multiply his comfort and peace according to the many blessings he has provided in his life and ministry, according to the forbearance he showed to me in my conversion, and his love for his Savior Christ.
Patty Joanna, on the Feast Day of St. Joanna
Father Peter,
I can still see you eating that torta in Salinas, wondering where a guy could get a decent carwash in this town. I remember visiting your home in Goleta and meeting your wonderful family. I feel all caught up because I just listened to your interview of last December on Ancient Faith Radio. I know you love to feel the love of the Church and must feel her arms wrapped tight around you now. Know that you made a difference.
Thomas Shaw
Dear Fr. Peter,
Without you, I would not be Orthodox today. I love you dearly. Gail and I are praying continuously that the Lord would grant you grace, mercy, and peace. You have touched so many with your ministry. I am so very, very grateful.
WIth love and great affection,
Dn. Michael and Sh. Gail Hyatt