News & Events
Here’s what’s happening at St. Peter’s.
Latest News
Upcoming Events & Ministry Activities
Support Group for Parents Grieving the Death of a Child 1/19
Grieving the death of a child is not something that suddenly ends, and not a journey you need to face alone. The Support Group for Parents Grieving the Death of a Child meets on the third Monday of each month from 7:30-9pm in the church rectory. Parents are welcome regardless of how long ago the loss was, or what age the child was. There’s no preregistration and no fee.
Please call Mary Davis with any questions: (201) 280-9881
The Church Rectory is the building next door to the front entrance of St. Peter’s: 445 Fifth Avenue, River Edge, NJ 07661
St. Peter's Play Group 1/21
St. Peter’s Play Group is where anyone caring for babies and young children can come for fun and friendships in our faith community. Moms, dads, grandparents and caregivers are all welcome with their 0-4 year-olds — the kids play while the adults chat! The group meets most Wednesdays, 9:30–11am, at the rectory or Brookside Park (weather permitting). No commitment needed — just come when you can!
Sign up for text notifications here or text PLAYTIME to 84576.
Prayer Shawl Ministry 1/21
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets most Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am in the Parish Center. New members are always welcome.
Youth Bible Study 1/21
High school and college students are invited to Youth Bible Study, which gathers most Wednesdays from 6–7pm in the Youth Room. Come grow in faith together and discover how God’s Word speaks to your life today.
Bridge Makers 1/22
Bridge Makers, a joint ministry of St. Peter the Apostle, River Edge and St. Mary's Church, Dumont, is a faith sharing community of LGBTQ, family, and friends. Our next meeting is Thursday, January 22nd at 7:00 PM at St. Peter's Parish Center.
Please contact Deacon Paul Kazanecki (pkazanecki@saint-peter.org) or Deacon John Sylvester (deaconjohn@stmarysdumont.org) for further information.
Prayer Shawl Ministry 1/23
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets most Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am in the Parish Center. New members are always welcome.
Community Saturday “Wine & Cheese” 1/24
Stick around after the 5pm Mass for Community Saturday in the Parish Center — where faith and friendships pair perfectly.
This monthly wine & cheese social is hosted by the community, for the community. It’s a great opportunity for parishioners to wrap up or kick off their Saturday night with the good company of this faith community.
Sign up for your turn to help host 🙋🙋♂️
Volunteers for Community Saturday can sign up to help host by bringing wine or drinks and/or an appetizer. It is also a great opportunity to reach out to your fellow parishioners to help host. Apps can be quick and easy or elaborate as you would like. You can bring wine and appetizers to the Parish Center kitchen before Mass, which has a fridge to keep things cold.
We will supply the cups, small plates, napkins, and wine opener. Please feel free to bring whatever else you may like. We look forward to seeing you and your family!
Knights of Columbus Annual Free-Throw Contest
All boys and girls ages 9–14 are invited to participate in this fun, free event!
Where: St. Peter the Apostle Gym
When: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Schedule:
Group 1: Ages 9–11 — 6:30 PM
Group 2: Ages 12–14 — 7:30 PM
Trophies will be awarded to each age group champion!
No cost to participate—players of all skill levels are welcome.
Registration: Complete and print your form before arriving: kofcriveredge.com/free-throw-tournament
Come join the fun and show off your skills!
Blood Drive
A blood drive will be held in the Gym on Sunday, January 25, 2026 from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM. It’s organized by St. Peter Academy Student Council and New Jersey Blood Services as we kick off Catholic Schools Week and honor National Blood Donor Month.
We are currently experiencing a blood shortage emergency and there is an urgent call for donors. Holiday disruptions, severe winter weather, canceled blood drives, and widespread seasonal illnesses have led to a significant decline in blood donations, resulting in critically low blood levels across the region. This leaves a very low supply of blood available at hospitals.
Students from the SPA Student Council decided to host a blood drive because, as Catholics, we are reminded that the Blood of Christ, poured out for us in love, is a sign of sacrifice, mercy, and life itself. By encouraging those of age to give blood, our students are responding to that same call—to give of ourselves so that others may live, heal, and be strengthened. This blood drive is more than a service project; it is an expression of our faith in action.
While walk-ins are welcome, we encourage you to pre-schedule an appointment. Thank you for your support!
SPA Open House
St. Peter Academy (Grades PK3 – 8) invites families to our Open House on Sunday, January 25, 2026 from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
Come explore our school and meet our dedicated teachers. We look forward to sharing what makes St. Peter Academy special!
Please use the main entrance at 431 Fifth Avenue.
P.S. Our Student Council is hosting a Blood Drive in the gym during the Open House! Please consider donating. Learn more.
[RESCHEDULED] Parish Pilgrimage to Italy: Information Meeting
(Rescheduled from January 18th due to weather).
Join Fr. AJ and your fellow parishioners on a pilgrimage to Italy in October 2026! Together, we'll travel to many of the most prominent places for our Catholic faith: the Vatican, Rome, Assisi, and more!
To learn more, please join us for an informational meeting on Sunday, January 25 at 4:30pm in the Parish Center.
Can't be there in person? You can join the meeting online here instead, at the time of the meeting. (Just click “Cancel” then “Continue on this browser”)
The Catechism in a Year Discussion Group 1/26
Grow in your faith this 2026 with The Catechism in a Year podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz, alongside fellow St. Peter’s parishioners!
The Catechism is the Church’s clear, comprehensive guide to what we believe—covering prayer, the sacraments, morality, and the story of salvation. Follow the daily episodes on your own schedule, and drop into our optional weekly Monday discussions at 7pm in the Parish Center anytime throughout the year as we reflect and pray through the previous week’s episodes together.
Joining late? No problem. Hop in any time during the year.
You can follow the podcast on the platform of your choice:
Please contact our Parish Office with any questions.
Respect Life Ministry 1/26
Open to all parishioners, please join Respect Life Ministry in the Parish Center at 7pm. Help strategize and plan activities to educate our parish and community about the realities of abortion in NJ, where it is legal to end a baby’s life up until his/her day of birth. Together, with prayer and action, we can change hearts and minds.
Advocacy for Peace & Justice Ministry 1/27
The Advocacy for Peace & Justice Ministry will be meeting at 7:30pm in the Parish Center. All are welcome! New members are invited to join this important ministry as we move forward in response to the needs in our community.
St. Peter's Play Group 1/28
St. Peter’s Play Group is where anyone caring for babies and young children can come for fun and friendships in our faith community. Moms, dads, grandparents and caregivers are all welcome with their 0-4 year-olds — the kids play while the adults chat! The group meets most Wednesdays, 9:30–11am, at the rectory or Brookside Park (weather permitting). No commitment needed — just come when you can!
Sign up for text notifications here or text PLAYTIME to 84576.
Prayer Shawl Ministry 1/28
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets most Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am in the Parish Center. New members are always welcome.
Youth Bible Study 1/28
High school and college students are invited to Youth Bible Study, which gathers most Wednesdays from 6–7pm in the Youth Room. Come grow in faith together and discover how God’s Word speaks to your life today.
Prayer Shawl Ministry 1/30
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets most Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am in the Parish Center. New members are always welcome.
Youth Group 2/1
Join Youth Ministry for fun and fellowship! All 9th-12th grade students are welcome to join in on our Youth Group sessions, which happen most Sunday evenings during the academic year, from 7-9pm in the Youth Room.
Follow us on Instagram @stpeters.yg
The Catechism in a Year Discussion Group 2/2
Grow in your faith this 2026 with The Catechism in a Year podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz, alongside fellow St. Peter’s parishioners!
The Catechism is the Church’s clear, comprehensive guide to what we believe—covering prayer, the sacraments, morality, and the story of salvation. Follow the daily episodes on your own schedule, and drop into our optional weekly Monday discussions at 7pm in the Parish Center anytime throughout the year as we reflect and pray through the previous week’s episodes together.
Joining late? No problem. Hop in any time during the year.
You can follow the podcast on the platform of your choice:
Please contact our Parish Office with any questions.
[SOLD OUT] St. Peter Academy Tricky Tray
UPDATE: This event has been SOLD OUT. Thank you for your support of St. Peter Academy!
Join us for the St. Peter Academy Annual Tricky Tray on Friday, February 6, 2026! Doors open at 6:00 PM, with drawings beginning at 8:00 PM. Enjoy a buffet of gourmet sandwiches and salads. Ticket bundles are available for pre-purchase—bundle pricing increases at the event. Thank you for supporting our school!
Connect with Coffee & Conversation 2/8: Trying to Stress Less?
Please join us in the Parish Center for Connect with Coffee & Conversation on Sunday, February 8, 2026 after the 10:00 Mass. Bill Wright is the Bergen New Bridge Medical Center Community Outreach Liaison. He is going to introduce us to practical stress management techniques, including deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, to help promote calm and well being as well as reduce tension and enhance relaxation in everyday life. Sounds like a good plan!
As always, the meetings are open to all parishioners ages 55+
Seasons of Hope Bereavement Support Group: March/April 2026 Session Begins
God is close to us in our suffering, sustaining us through the gift of each other. The support of those who know what you are going through is one of God’s many gifts of love. Seasons of Hope is a 6-week faith-based support group for those grieving the loss of a loved one. A new 6-week session will be held from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm on Tuesday evenings, March 10, 17, 24, 31, April 7 and 14, 2026.
Seasons of Hope: A Christ-centered group is for you if:
You are looking for friends in Christ to share your journey of sorrow.
You’ve been trying to figure out the meaning of your grief.
You want to move forward with life but haven’t been able to.
You find comfort in the teachings of Christ.
You are open to new ways of coping with your grief.
You don’t want to feel alone anymore.
If you have questions, please contact bereavement@saint-peter.org or 201-261-3366. Registration is now open at www.saint-peter.org/bereavement.
Rosary Society Annual Luncheon 2026
All are invited to attend the Annual Rosary Society Luncheon that will take place on Sunday, January 18th at 2:00 PM in the Parish Center. Father Paul will be our special guest speaker!
If you would like to attend, drop off $15 to the rectory by Monday, January 12th so we know how many will be attending.
Happy and blessed New Year to you all. May Mary watch over us always and keep us safe.
Young Adults Catholic Fellowship
Bergen County Young Adult Catholic Fellowship (YACF) invites young adults in their 20s and 30s to build authentic friendships, grow in faith, and engage in meaningful conversation. Gatherings are held every third Sunday of the month.
The next meetup is Sunday, January 18, 2026 from 2:00–4:00 PM at Holy Trinity Church’s Parish Chapel (former convent to the right of the school), 20 Pangborn Place, Hackensack, NJ. The afternoon includes a Holy Hour and Recollection with Fr. Tom, Praise and Worship, a talk from guest speaker Nicole Hoffman on her conversion story, and Healing Prayers, followed by fellowship and food. Hosted by Fr. Tom of Holy Trinity, Fr. AJ of St. Peter’s, and Fr. Lynx of St. Francis of Assisi.
Fair Trade Sale (January 17/18th)
Equal Exchange goods such as coffee, tea, chocolate and nuts will be available for purchase after all Masses in the Gathering Space.
Buying from fair trade sales supports ethical and sustainable practices in global trade. Fair trade ensures that farmers — often in developing countries — receive fair wages, work in safe conditions, and have access to community development funds. This approach helps combat poverty and promotes environmental sustainability to protect God’s earth.
Organized by the Advocacy for Peace and Justice Ministry.
SPA Beefsteak 2026
St. Peter Academy’s cherished Annual Beefsteak takes place Saturday, January 17th at 4:00 PM in the Gym — a long-standing tradition that brings together nearly 200 football fans for a full day of great food, games, and community. Hosted in true Beefsteak fashion, this banquet-style fundraiser dates back to the late 19th century and continues to support the mission of St. Peter Academy. Nightingale Catering of Clifton provides the classic feast, welcoming guests from River Edge, Paramus, New Milford, Hackensack, and beyond.
Please note this is an adult only event.
Buy tickets via the online form, or download a flyer form below. Payment methods accepted: cash, check, credit card or Zelle (via kflanagan@spare.org). Tickets also will be on sale after all masses the weekend of January 10th and 11th 2026.
Email HSA@spare.org with questions or to purchase tickets!
We invite businesses and community partners to support this event through one of our sponsorship opportunities:
Platinum Event Sponsor — $1,000 (5 available)
• Recognition on all event materials
• Ability to distribute business cards, marketing materials, or swag to all guests (provided by sponsor)
• Meet-and-greet table for the duration of the event
• Branded table banner at bar stations
• Four event tickets included ($320 value)
Premium Event Sponsor — $500 (3 available)
• Recognition on all event materials
• Ability to distribute business cards, marketing materials, or swag to all guests
• Meet-and-greet table during the event
• Two event tickets included ($160 value)
General Event Sponsor — $250
• Recognition on all event materials
• Ability to distribute business cards, marketing materials, or swag to all guests
Beverage Sponsor — Keg/Case Donations
• Recognition as Beverage Sponsor on all event materials
• Ability to distribute marketing materials or swag
• Premium signage and branding on tables and keg stations for donations of 4+ kegs
Raffle Sponsor — Raffle Prize Donations (valued at $250+)
Examples include electronics, event tickets, and sports memorabilia.
• Recognition as a Raffle Sponsor on all event materials
• Ability to distribute marketing materials or swag
All donations are tax-deductible.
SPA Tax ID: 221-533-517
Prayer Shawl Ministry 1/16
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets most Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am in the Parish Center. New members are always welcome.
Support Group for Singles, Divorced and Widowed 1/15
Tired of being alone? St. Peter's Support Group for Singles, Divorced and Widowed could be the answer!!! This group is devoted to helping people rebuild social lives after a divorce, loss of spouse or loved one, or the isolation of life as a single adult. Its leaders and compassionate members have been through, survived and prospered after similar situations.
This warm and caring group of sincere people have created a community that supplies generous support to its members. First time visitors are offered a private orientation by one of our group leaders. Meetings are held on most 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month at 7pm in the Parish Center. For more information check out the group’s website.
Communications Ministry 1/14
Help us share the life and faith of our parish! The communications team manages our website, social media, bulletin, and media screen, and we’re looking for help with photography, writing, video, or creative ideas. Join us Wednesday, January 14th at 7:30 PM in the Youth Room. Open to adults and high schoolers—no experience necessary.
Questions? Contact Liz Rutz at communications@saint-peter.org
The latest from @StPeterRiverEdgeNJ
Youth Bible Study 1/14
High school and college students are invited to Youth Bible Study, which gathers most Wednesdays from 6–7pm in the Youth Room. Come grow in faith together and discover how God’s Word speaks to your life today.
Prayer Shawl Ministry 1/14
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets most Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am in the Parish Center. New members are always welcome.
St. Peter's Play Group 1/14
St. Peter’s Play Group is where anyone caring for babies and young children can come for fun and friendships in our faith community. Moms, dads, grandparents and caregivers are all welcome with their 0-4 year-olds — the kids play while the adults chat! The group meets most Wednesdays, 9:30–11am, at the rectory or Brookside Park (weather permitting). No commitment needed — just come when you can!
Sign up for text notifications here or text PLAYTIME to 84576.
An Evening of Peace and Friendship 1/13
Join us for an Evening of Peace & Friendship at 7:30pm in the Chapel and on Zoom in a casual conversation and discussion about the upcoming Sunday Scripture and its relevance in our lives.
We look forward to your sharing this time with us. All are welcome — there is nothing to join. Please email SCC@saint-peter.org for the link and passcode to the Zoom meeting if you don’t plan to attend in person.
Sessions typically are held every second Tuesday of the month.
Sponsored by St. Peter’s Small Christian Communities.
The Catechism in a Year Discussion Group 1/12
Grow in your faith this 2026 with The Catechism in a Year podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz, alongside fellow St. Peter’s parishioners!
The Catechism is the Church’s clear, comprehensive guide to what we believe—covering prayer, the sacraments, morality, and the story of salvation. Follow the daily episodes on your own schedule, and drop into our optional weekly Monday discussions at 7pm in the Parish Center anytime throughout the year as we reflect and pray through the previous week’s episodes together.
Joining late? No problem. Hop in any time during the year.
You can follow the podcast on the platform of your choice:
Please contact our Parish Office with any questions.
Youth Group 1/18
Join Youth Ministry for fun and fellowship! All 9th-12th grade students are welcome to join in on our Youth Group sessions, which happen most Sunday evenings during the academic year, from 7-9pm in the Youth Room.
Follow us on Instagram @stpeters.yg
College Night: Winter Break Gathering
All college students are invited to a night of food, fellowship, and prayer on Sunday, January 11, 2026 from 7:00-9:00 PM, starting in the Parish Center. Take a break from the rush of school and the holidays to reconnect with your faith, church, and fellow college students home for Winter Break.
Know a college student who’ll be home? Help us spread the word!
Youth Group 1/11
Join Youth Ministry for fun and fellowship! All 9th-12th grade students are welcome to join in on our Youth Group sessions, which happen most Sunday evenings during the academic year, from 7-9pm in the Youth Room. However, please note this January 11th session will take place from 3-5pm.
Follow us on Instagram @stpeters.yg
Connect with Coffee & Conversation 1/11
Join us for CCC on Sunday, January 11, 2026 after the 10:00 am Mass in the Parish Center. We canceled our December meeting due to the snow. But Mario Medici will be with us for this first meeting of the new year. His presentation will be: Greenwich Village-the years of tragedy, Bohemians and the Arts. Please join us!
As always, the meetings are open to all parishioners ages 55+
Ticket Sales for SPA Beefsteak
St. Peter Academy’s cherished Annual Beefsteak takes place Saturday, January 17th at 4:00 PM in the Gym — a long-standing tradition that brings together nearly 200 football fans for a full day of great food, games, and community. Hosted in true Beefsteak fashion, this banquet-style fundraiser dates back to the late 19th century and continues to support the mission of St. Peter Academy. Nightingale Catering of Clifton provides the classic feast, welcoming guests from River Edge, Paramus, New Milford, Hackensack, and beyond.
Please note this is an adult only event.
Buy tickets via the online form, or download a flyer form below. Payment methods accepted: cash, check, credit card or Zelle (via kflanagan@spare.org). Tickets also will be on sale after all masses the weekend of January 10th and 11th 2026.
Email HSA@spare.org with questions or to purchase tickets!
We invite businesses and community partners to support this event through one of our sponsorship opportunities:
Platinum Event Sponsor — $1,000 (5 available)
• Recognition on all event materials
• Ability to distribute business cards, marketing materials, or swag to all guests (provided by sponsor)
• Meet-and-greet table for the duration of the event
• Branded table banner at bar stations
• Four event tickets included ($320 value)
Premium Event Sponsor — $500 (3 available)
• Recognition on all event materials
• Ability to distribute business cards, marketing materials, or swag to all guests
• Meet-and-greet table during the event
• Two event tickets included ($160 value)
General Event Sponsor — $250
• Recognition on all event materials
• Ability to distribute business cards, marketing materials, or swag to all guests
Beverage Sponsor — Keg/Case Donations
• Recognition as Beverage Sponsor on all event materials
• Ability to distribute marketing materials or swag
• Premium signage and branding on tables and keg stations for donations of 4+ kegs
Raffle Sponsor — Raffle Prize Donations (valued at $250+)
Examples include electronics, event tickets, and sports memorabilia.
• Recognition as a Raffle Sponsor on all event materials
• Ability to distribute marketing materials or swag
All donations are tax-deductible.
SPA Tax ID: 221-533-517
Ticket Sales for SPA Tricky Tray
Tickets for the SPA Tricky Tray fundraiser event will be on sale after all Masses the weekend of January 10/11th.
Join us for the St. Peter Academy Annual Tricky Tray on Friday, February 6, 2026! Doors open at 6:00 PM, with drawings beginning at 8:00 PM. Enjoy a buffet of gourmet sandwiches and salads. Ticket bundles are available for pre-purchase—bundle pricing increases at the event. Thank you for supporting our school!
Prayer Shawl Ministry 1/9
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets most Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am in the Parish Center. New members are always welcome.
New Evangelization Ministry 1/8
New Evangelization Ministry typically meets every second Thursday of the month at 7:45pm in the Parish Center. New members are welcome to join.
Youth Bible Study 1/7
High school and college students are invited to Youth Bible Study, which gathers most Wednesdays from 6–7pm in the Youth Room. Come grow in faith together and discover how God’s Word speaks to your life today.
Prayer Shawl Ministry 1/7
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets most Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am in the Parish Center. New members are always welcome.
St. Peter's Play Group 1/7
St. Peter’s Play Group is where anyone caring for babies and young children can come for fun and friendships in our faith community. Moms, dads, grandparents and caregivers are all welcome with their 0-4 year-olds — the kids play while the adults chat! The group meets most Wednesdays, 9:30–11am, at the rectory or Brookside Park (weather permitting). No commitment needed — just come when you can!
Sign up for text notifications here or text PLAYTIME to 84576.
Seasons of Hope Bereavement Support Group: Jan/Feb 2026 Session Begins
Update: Registration for this Jan/Feb session is now closed. Registration for the March/April session is now open.
God is close to us in our suffering, sustaining us through the gift of each other. The support of those who know what you are going through is one of God’s many gifts of love. Seasons of Hope is a 6-week faith-based support group for those grieving the loss of a loved one. A new 6-week session will be held from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm on Tuesday evenings, January 6, 13, 20, 27, and February 3 and 10.
Seasons of Hope: A Christ-centered group is for you if:
You are looking for friends in Christ to share your journey of sorrow.
You’ve been trying to figure out the meaning of your grief.
You want to move forward with life but haven’t been able to.
You find comfort in the teachings of Christ.
You are open to new ways of coping with your grief.
You don’t want to feel alone anymore.
If you have questions, please contact bereavement@saint-peter.org or 201-261-3366. Registration is now open at www.saint-peter.org/bereavement.
The Catechism in a Year Discussion Group 1/5
Grow in your faith this 2026 with The Catechism in a Year podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz, alongside fellow St. Peter’s parishioners!
The Catechism is the Church’s clear, comprehensive guide to what we believe—covering prayer, the sacraments, morality, and the story of salvation. Follow the daily episodes on your own schedule, and drop into our optional weekly Monday discussions at 7pm in the Parish Center anytime throughout the year as we reflect and pray through the previous week’s episodes together.
Joining late? No problem. Hop in any time during the year.
You can follow the podcast on the platform of your choice:
Please contact our Parish Office with any questions.
Warm Clothing Drive
Members of the Advocacy for Peace and Justice Ministry will be conducting a Warm Clothing Drive from Saturday, January 3rd through Sunday, January 11th. New or slightly used clothing is needed for men, women and children, and will be donated to a number of local organizations that serve those in need. A box will be placed in the Gathering Space for the clothing. We thank you in advance for your thoughtful generosity.
Prayer Shawl Ministry 1/2
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets most Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am in the Parish Center. New members are always welcome.
First Friday Eucharistic Adoration 1/2
St. Peter’s monthly First Friday Eucharistic Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place on the first Friday of every month in the chapel following the 9am Mass until 3pm. Come spend time with our Lord in the Eucharist. Stop in for a few minutes, or we invite you to sign up to devote a larger period of time.
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
Please join us for Mass on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at 9:00 AM to celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.
Please note the Parish Office will be closed.
The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) at St. Peter's begins!
Grow in your faith this 2026 with The Catechism in a Year podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz, alongside fellow St. Peter’s parishioners!
The Catechism is the Church’s clear, comprehensive guide to what we believe—covering prayer, the sacraments, morality, and the story of salvation. Follow the daily episodes on your own schedule, and drop into our optional weekly Monday discussions at 7pm in the Parish Center anytime throughout the year as we reflect and pray through the previous week’s episodes together.
The journey begins January 1st, and you can hop in any time.
You can follow the podcast on the platform of your choice:
Please contact our Parish Office with any questions.



