Fr Peter Helman
EDITOR’S NOTE: A church community is created when people gather together for the love of God. At the same time, Saint Philip’s is composed of many people who represent different ages, life experiences, and world views.
The “In conversation…” series is one attempt to create possibilities for connection between the different people in our community. As varied as we all are, there are also similarities and mutual interests waiting to be discovered. And there is one thing we all share: a desire to know God and be in relationship with him.
This week’s conversation is with Fr Peter Helman, Saint Philip’s Parochial Vicar (the person who oversees the critical church activities of worship and pastoral care on behalf of the rector.)
Extra fact: Fr Peter’s birthday is this Sunday, October 23.
Fr Peter Helman
How long have you been a priest?
I was ordained on December 7, 2013, so I’ve been a priest for almost 9 years.
Were you surprised to feel called to the ministry?
My parents are very devout. In addition to their professions (my father was a veterinary pathologist and my mother a homemaker/artist) they were also missionaries. We lived in mainland China when I was four to seven years old.
Religion was always a part of my experience but it was more evangelical and fundamental than the Episcopal tradition. I was in my first semester at a Presbyterian seminary when I discovered the Episcopal church. It felt so “right” that I joined the Episcopal church during my second semester.
So, I wasn’t surprised by my call to the ministry but I am grateful to live into it within the Episcopal tradition.
Where did you grow up?
Everywhere! My parents were a bit nomadic, and moved the family (my two siblings and me) every four to five years.
I was born in Knoxville, TN. After China, we moved to Texas, and I spent my high school years in Oklahoma and California.
What is something you really appreciate about Saint Philip’s?
As large as Saint Philip’s is, my experience is of a very close-knit community. I witness regularly how people care for one another in ways that I think are uncommon. Before joining Saint Philip’s six years ago, I worked at a very small parish with about 40 worshipers on a Sunday. The care and community I experience at Saint Philip’s is the same as what I witnessed at the much smaller church. I believe that’s remarkable and something I cherish.
Being faithful and living in a way that honors God—day in and day out—is challenging. Support is necessary and I gain strength in my faith by sharing in others’ journey to do the same.
How do you replenish yourself?
I love to play frisbee golf, and hang out with my two rescue dogs, Scout (11) and Radar (14).
Rapid fire questions…
What is your most used app? Chess
Chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate
Pie or cake? Pie