Father Henry V. Petter of St. Joseph Village (SJV) celebrated two extraordinary milestones; his 80th birthday and 50 years of priesthood.
Father Henry says it feels good to have arrived at his 80th chapter of life. Though he experiences a few aches and pains, he remains active in ministry, enjoys spending time with family and friends and looks forward to traveling and making new memories. While, these days, he prefers walking over running, however, his passion for serving others remains as strong as ever.
Five years ago, Father Henry retired as pastor of St. Ann Parish in Coppell. He continues to listen to confessions at St. Ann’s while also celebrating Mass and leading prayers for residents at SJV. He says he is grateful to still serve where he is needed while making time for loved ones.
In addition to his ministry, Father Henry has played guitar and the harmonica since childhood and sometimes performs during SJV Happy Hours, sharing folk, patriotic, country and even Czech polka music with residents.
His call to priesthood happened in elementary school, inspired by a charismatic priest at St. Monica Catholic church in Dallas. Throughout the past five decades, some of his greatest joys have been sharing God’s mercy, celebrating baptisms and weddings and comforting families through times of loss.
At SJV, Father Henry finds bliss in the people who make the community special. Whether sharing a meal in the dining room, walking with residents, celebrating Mass or playing games, he values the relationships he has built in this community.
When asked what advice he would offer younger priests, Father Henry’s wisdom is simple but powerful: listen with empathy, practice humility, pray regularly, seek guidance from a trusted mentor and never be afraid to say, “I’m sorry, please forgive me.”
As Father Henry celebrates 80 years of life and 50 years of priesthood, St. Joseph Village honors his faithful service and the countless lives he has touched along the way.
