“Life-changer!” Father Evaristus Chukwu exclaimed. He is pastor of St. Peter the Apostle Church.
Welcome to St. Peter the Apostle Church in Houston. It is more than a place of worship. It’s a beacon of faith. It stands as a testament to community and transformation.
In 2022, an exciting vision took root. St. Peter School was set to become St. Peter Catholic Career and Technical High School. This transformation breathed new life into the parish. The goal was to provide affordable Catholic education. Students would gain skills for the professional world.
Cardinal DiNardo emphasized job-readiness and virtuous formation. The high school focuses on preparing young people. They will enter the world as witnesses to Jesus Christ. Debra Haney highlighted hands-on experience with industry-standard technology.
Students can pursue associate degrees, four-year colleges or direct entry into the workforce. Certifications would equip them for industry jobs. Renovations and technology upgrades required community support. Volunteers and church officials sought partnerships. They worked with groups like the Scanlan Foundation.
An estimated $6.5 million was needed to begin construction. Phase 1 was scheduled to open in August 2023. Businesses could offer internships. Experts could train students for the workplace.
The school was designed for 200 students in Phase 1. It started with a freshman class of 50 in 2023. Later phases included transportation, distribution, logistics and health science.
Mark Letsos Jr. from Lambda Specialties served on the St. Peter advisory board. The board planned for the new school. It aimed to benefit students and Houston businesses. The career programs were selected carefully. They considered job market projections and sustainable careers.
Father Evaristus Chukwu is also on the school’s advisory board. Ordained in Nigeria in 2011, he came to the U.S. in 2014. He saw the school as a life-changer for students.
Mark Amelang, president and CEO of AlignESG, also served on the board. He believes education is key. It builds strong families and societies. Amelang’s experience fueled his passion.
The church offers regular mass services. On Saturdays, mass is at 5:00 pm. Sundays offer services at 9:00 am and 12:30 pm in Spanish. Weekday masses are held Tuesday through Friday at 8:10 am.
Other services include adoration on the first Friday of each month. It takes place from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Confessions are heard on Saturdays from 4:30 pm to 4:55 pm.
Devotions include the Holy Rosary on Mondays from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. St. Joseph Novena follows Tuesday masses from 8:10 am to 8:40 am.
St. Peter the Apostle Church stands as a symbol of faith. It embodies community and transformation. Its story continues to unfold. It inspires all who enter its doors.