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.
Fr. Peter,
Your brothers and sisters in Christ are praying for you here in St. Louis, MO.
Fr. Steven Salaris
On my return flight from Dallas last night, I sat next to a S. Baptist preacher. We discussed matters of faith, not surprisingly, church & family. When he asked where I was traveling next, I said “Bloomington” & explained how much we want to be with you. He said “That’s the way families should be.” I responded with an “amen!” and proceeded to offer a brief rendition of your life from Campus Crusades forward. “Big man, big hug, big smile, big voice for the Lord, a soldier’s soldier”, I said. He wants to read your book. You see, the love you’ve spread and the lives you’ve touched will pay dividends forever. “Well done good and faithful servant…Enter into the joy of your lord.” — St. Mathew 25:21.
O Lord Jesus Christ, our Saviour, Physician of souls and bodies, who became man and suffered death on the Cross for our salvation, and through Your tender love and compassion did heal all manner of sickness and affliction, visit Your servant and faithful priest, Peter, O Lord in his present suffering, and grant him Your abundance of grace and strength to bear this sickness with which he is afflicted, with Christian patience and submission to Your will, trusting in Your loving kindness and tender mercy. With trust in You and deep love for him, we fervently pray for his good account before Your mercy seat.
Father,
I’ll never forget the words we exchanged when you came to Jackson. I still remember the prayer you said for me when i was ill, it meant the world to me. Your kind words have forever changed me. We are fervently praying for you and your family. It was an absolute pleasure getting to know you. You will always be remembered in my thoughts and in my heart.
Dear Fr. Peter and Kh. Marilyn,
It was with great sadness that we heard about the return of your cancer. You and your family are in our hearts and prayers. Thank you so much for the loving encouragement to have been to us. Your warm embrace and your loving words of greeting and encouragement throughout the years have touched us in a way that we can never express, but please know that through your love, we have experienced the love of Christ. As I remember back to the tIme I spent in your home as a teen, I am so grateful for the genuine love and affection you shared so freely. The joy and enthusiasm with which you serve our God has given us an example to follow in our own lives. Thank you so much for all of your sacrifice in helping to lead us to the Orthodox faith, to a place of green pastures and still waters, where we can see our children’s children and know the joy of our Lord. Thank you Fr. Peter and Marilyn for the wonderful family you have raised, for the example you have set, and for the encouragement you have given to us along the way.
We love you.
Dn. Joseph & Denise Ray & Family
“Now we see through a mirror darkly, then we shall see Him face to face!”
What a glorious promise! Praying for comfort for you and your family! You are greatly loved!
Fr Peter E., forgive me, a sinner.
I love you and your family more than you will ever know. If it were possible, I would gladly take your pain and bear your illness so that you would not have to endure this recent setback. Unworthy as I am, I’m sending up prayers to our holy Father, heavenly Physician of our souls and bodies. May HE grant you release from pain and restoration to health and vigor.
I am currently reading the book, Saint Nektarios, The Saint of our Century. I think I understand now why you have such a fondness for him. “Holy Saint Nektarios, pray to God for Fr Peter!! Glory to God!
Please feel better quickly. You are sorely missed.
Yours in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior
~Shirley
Fr. Peter and family,
Our love and prayers are with you all at this time. We pray that our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ will grant peace to you and your family in this difficult hour. You are truly a blessing to so many people and a wonderful priest in our holy church. May God bless you and your family.
Dan and Ashley Kevorkian and Family
Beloved Fr. Peter, Kh. Marilyn, and family,
Our lives have been enriched by knowing you all. Dn. Lucien fondly remembers Fr. Peter’s talks at the Village for the St. Stephen’s course. I’ve had the joy of hearing some of Fr. Peter’s talks downloaded from Ancient Faith Radio. We will always remember you for your tender heart and wise and loving words.
Fr. Peter, Kh. Marilyn and all your family are in our constant prayers.
Special thanks to Fr. Peter Jon for maintaining this website.
With love, Fr. Dn. Lucien, Deaconessa Miriam, Zack, Marina, and Gabriel
Prayers are being sent up for you, Fr. Peter, and your entire family. You led us to Orthodoxy and then enriched our experience. We thank God for your work throughout the years.
Dear Fr. Peter,
You have inspired and influenced my life more than you can imagine. I am deeply saddened by your suffering. Last night I heard Bishop Kallistos Ware speak about the Jesus Prayer at St. Mark Coptic in Virginia. I asked him afterwards to sign his book for me, and I asked him to include his favorite Bible verse. What he wrote is my prayer for you and Marilyn, Fr. Peter Jon and his wife and kids, and all your wonder-full family — “‘Come unto Me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest’ (cross) Metropolitan Kallistos” Thank you from the bottom of my heart for changing my life and leading me towards the truth. Always remember Jesus and Mary are your best friends!
Christ friends,
Pastor David
Fr. Peter;
Just when I thought there was no church in world with the truth, by Gods’ grace I became an Orthodox christian by marriage; what a double blessing a wonderful husband and the one truth faith! I appreciated your book so much “Becoming Orthodox” as I felt it was my journey too. I pray for you and your family that you be granted peace, strength and Gods’ grace as you prepare to meet the Lord face to face.
Yours in Christ
deb
Fr Peter, Marilyn, and family,
Our hearts ache for all of you. You are very dear to us. Father Peter, I tell every and anybody who will listen that I “blame” you to a great degree for my conversion to Orthodoxy…something for which I am eternally grateful.
Love, Prayers, & Gratitude,
(Craig &) Cindy George
Dear Fr. Peter & Khouria Marilyn,
Our Prayers and love are with you and your family. Your Impact on Orthodoxy in America is everlasting. May our merciful God give you and those around you healing and courage.
We are remembering you all in our prayers during this difficult time. We are so grateful for all the Lord has done for us through Fr. Peter’s work. May the Lord Jesus give you grace to carry this cross!
Dear Fr. Peter,
Know that the Finchum family has you and your family in our prayers. Words cannot say what you and your family have done for us and many others. I cannot put into words the gratitude and admiration that we have for you. When I came back to the Orthodox Church after being gone for many years, it was you who said, “Welcome home” to me. This meant more than you may have realized. I will carry that in my heart always and never forget it. God is with you and we will cherish you always. “In the day that I called, you answered me. You encouraged me with strength in my soul. ~ Psalm 138:3”
Fr. Peter and Khouria Marilyn,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Best wishes for a quick and complete recovery.
Your book “Becoming Orthodox” is what prompted my family to convert in the late 80’s. So sorry to hear about your melanoma. Praying for God’s Will for you and your family.
(St. Ignatius, Franklin, TN)
Fr. Peter and Family,
I just found about Fr. Peter’s condition from someone at church this morning. I know that many converts have you to thank for their conversion to Orthodoxy. However, I want to make you aware that I, a “cradle Orthodox” parishioner, have you to thank for leading me back to the faith. When I strayed away, I found your writings comforting and real, and as a result I returned to where I belong. I will have you and your family in my prayers for comfort and healing during this difficult time.
God Bless,
Ann
Lord Have Mercy. Praying for you Fr. Peter and your family.
In Christ,
Steven