How is this project being funded?

This project is being funded completely through donations made specifically for this purpose by St. Peter’s parishioners and their family and friends.

How do I make a donation?

Thank you for your thoughtful support of The St. Peter’s Grotto. There are a few ways to donate, and all donations are welcome. We can accept cash and checks, and you may choose to participate in the Grotto Memorial Paver Program and/or the Memorial Plaque Inscription program, or you may choose to dedicate your donation to the hardscape and landscape aspect of the project which will help us to purchase plantings, benches, etc. for the Grotto. You may also choose to donate without making a selection. Donation options:

• Follow this link to the WeShare fundraising page created by Portland Diocese for this cause. Simply fill out the form, select your desired donation, and you will receive a phone call or from a Grotto Committee member to finalize your generous donation.

• Fill out and mail in the St. Peter’s Grotto brochure insert. They are available at St. Peter’s Church in the foyer or you may call Jim Ciampi, chair of the bazaar at 207.712.9205 or email stpetersgrotto@gmail.com and request one to be mailed to you. Be sure to fill in the form completely, and you will receive a phone call or from a Grotto Committee member to finalize your generous donation.

• Or, contact us through this website and a Grotto Committee member will contact you.

What if I don’t want to purchase a paver?

In addition to the inscribed paver program, we also have a donor wall, and a great need for funding to cover hardscape, landscape, plantings, and benches, etc.

And if you you do not wish to choose a specific option, you may send in a generic donation and we will apply the funds where they are most greatly needed.

Why do we need a grotto?

The St. Peter’s Grotto is a carefully considered opportunity to connect historical significance with the modern outreach of the parish as a whole. We have a physical area of our property that has been left in disrepair for years that also has significant sight lines.

This project has the unquestionable ability to impact the curb appeal of the parish, define our Catholic stamp on the neighborhood, assist in defining our historical and ethnic culture, develop community ties to our faith and significantly address the potential for more appeal to those interested in learning more about St. Peter’s and the Catholic faith.

The Grotto is a reflection of the strength, vibrancy and devotion to our Blessed Virgin Mary and our patron saints, St. Peter and St. Rocco. With God’s will, our Grotto will be a testament to the fortitude, love and devotion of the St. Peter’s family and to its mother church and all who have dedicated their lives to the Roman Catholic faith here in our little corner, the “Little Italy” of Portland Maine.

Who is managing the project?

The project is being managed by a committee of St. Peter’s parishioner volunteers with oversight from the Portland Diocese. The St. Peter’s Grotto Committee is comprised of:

• James Ciampi - Chair

• Willie Audet Jr.

• Johnny Napolitano

• Susan Bowden

• Selby Beebe Lawson

• Robert Woodman

• Michael Hutchins

• Sal Raia

What is the intention of this project?

As you consider your contribution for the creation of this beautification project, please recognize that the intent is for The St. Peter’s Grotto to be a source of comfort, strength, faith and historical significance for our generation and those to come.