Rev. Peter W. Nielsen III honored by Ashtabula City Council on his retirement

ASHTABULA – The Rev. Peter W. Nielsen III said it seems like yesterday since he began serving as pastor of St. Peter Church in Ashtabula more than 11 years ago.
At its Monday, Dec. 15th meeting, Ashtabula City Council honored him on his retirement from St. Peter Church with a resolution.
“It’s been a singular pleasure, really, to stand before you tonight and to be in this community for 11 years,” he said.
Noting how his service has been a blessing to him, the Rev. Nielsen said he hopes the church will continue to be a blessing under the new leadership.
“Everything is moving that way, it’s a great community, and they know how to serve, so all will do well,” he said.
Council President John Roskovics was impressed by the church – and the part that Rev. Nielsen has played in making it a joyous place.
“There is such joy, you just feel it when you’re in that church, and such compassion,” Roskovics commented. “And I think part of that is the wonderful congregation. I think part of it’s a reflection on Rev. Nielsen and all he does. I’ve been so impressed when I do go there. You just feel good. You can’t be in there and not feel good. And so, we wanted to honor him with a resolution because Ashtabula is going to miss him.”
Council member Kym Foglio read the resolution to Rev. Nielsen.
The resolution notes that “Rev. Nielsen faithfully dedicated his ministry to serving God, the church, and the Ashtabula community with compassion, vision, and leadership,” and “has collaborated with community partners, known as My Neighborhood, to development and maintain Kadon Presidential Park, a vibrant community gathering place that includes a garden producing fresh food for some of the most vulnerable in our community.”
According to the resolution, Rev. Nielsen “has worked extensively with several local and church foundations, private donors, and dedicated volunteers to offer high-quality concerts and receptions to the public at no charge, recognizing the economic realities of the surrounding community.”
It notes, “These musical and cultural events have enriched the lives of children and families and strengthened the role of St. Peter Church as a center for community enrichment and encouragement.”
The resolution continues by stating that Rev. Nielsen has supported and expanded the longstanding Hope and a Future Food Pantry at St. Peter Church, an essential ministry serving those living in poverty.
“During his tenure, the pantry grew from offering groceries alone to providing a weekly hot meal and an annual Christmas celebration with special food distribution,” the resolution states. “This ministry remained unwavering even throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, continuing to feed the community when Sunday services were temporarily halted.”
Additionally, the resolution notes that Rev. Nielsen “has expanded opportunities for worship, education, celebration, and community outreach through events such as hosting the exhibit commemorating the tragic train accident, organizing community parties and picnics in South Park, celebrating the church’s 200th anniversary, and offering consistent support, to critical community missions including Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army, Sub-Zero Mission, and the now closed Warming Center.”
It notes that he “has strengthened the bonds between the church and community, inspired countless volunteers, and demonstrated a ministry deeply rooted in service, compassion, and hope.”
“Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved that this City Council and these Public Officials of the City of Ashtabula, Ohio, do hereby convey to The Rev. Peter W. Nielsen, III, our sincere congratulations on your retirement and thank you for your dedication, leadership, and ministry to the Ashtabula community,” the resolution states.