History 

St. Peter’s Summer Sunday Church services were started in the 1960s by a small group of “worship pioneers” who arranged for use of the historic Union Church in Naples, Maine. They appropriately chose the name St. Peter’s by the Lake. Among the initial clergy provided by the Diocese was the Rev. Raymond Hall, whose family are summer members today. (Rev. Ben and Faith Hall)

By 1974, attendance had grown and a year-round church was established. Early members included Harry and Pat Sprackland, Jack and Vaughn Goodman, Arthur and Blanche Martin. The Rev. Graham Pierce became the first vicar. He was followed by the Rev. John Messinger, a much beloved priest who served for 12 years.

Because the Union Church was not suitable for year-round use, this dedicated group sought another home and changed the church name to simply St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. The search for a worship space caused them to become dedicated “wanderers” in their quest for a permanent home. Over the years, Sunday services were held at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, South Bridgton Congregational Church and finally Bridgton United Methodist church. In fact, there were times when church members’ homes became places of worship.

In 2005, enthusiasm had built for the idea and finalization of the dream of  building a church. Both the rector, Bishop John Smith and the Bishop of Maine, Chilton Knudsen provided strong leadership and the realization of this began. Led by William White, the outline for financial plan was realized and by August 2008, the doors to this new church were opened.

St. Peter's Episcopal Church Today