With the support of many Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter (FSSP) priests throughout many years, Camp St. Peter in the Black Hills has been operated by seminarians from the FSSP's Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary. Founded by Father Christopher Hathway, FSSP when he was pastor at Immaculate Conception Parish, the Camp has become another one of South Dakota’s “Monuments.” Camp St. Peter in the Black Hills has offered a uniquely rustic and Catholic experience for teenagers, combining both spiritual and physical exercise, and focusing on developing manly virtues through a broad range of activities. Over 1,000 boys have now participated since the camps began.
The Black Hills present a unique outdoor environment with vastly different terrains - from Custer State Park to the Badlands. Many well-known monuments and attractions are within driving distance of the camp site, including Mount Rushmore. Campers have stayed at a rugged campsite where the focus on the beauty of God's creation, without distraction, can lead to profound forms of prayer. Holy Mass has been held outdoors each morning before the activities of the day begin. The campers have participated in hiking, sports, and games - rain or shine. Seminarians have shared in vocation stories, Catechism lessons and games.
Because of Camp St. Peter, the Black Hills have long held a special place in the memories of FSSP seminarians and the campers. A group of former campers have even sent their own children to the camps they attended themselves. These fathers have had the unique experience of dropping their sons off at the camp that they remember from their youth. Parishioners of Immaculate Conception have looked forward to the start of Camp St. Peter every year. May God grant that the mission and tradition of Camp St. Peter from the past lasts long into the future.
Congratulations to all who made the recent purchase of property in the Black Hills a possibility. In particular thanks go to His Excellency Bishop Peter Muhich for his generosity. Please pray to St. Peter for his speedy recovery from esophageal cancer.