Legacy of friendship: Remembering the Very Rev. Peter T. Sticco, S.A.C.
By Allison Mosier12/04/2025
When the Very Rev. Peter T. Sticco, S.A.C., entered eternal life on November 30, 2025, the Diocese of Erie joined countless others in mourning the loss of a priest whose ministry embodied the heart of the Gospel: friendship, service and steadfast love for God’s people. While Father Peter’s vocation took him around the world, it was his relationship with the Mission of Friendship—and with the people of Erie who served alongside him—that stands as one of the most enduring signs of his missionary heart.
Father Peter first visited the Mission of Friendship in Mérida, Yucatán, in 1985, arriving with young parishioners from Our Lady of Grace Parish. What began as a simple encounter quickly grew into a lifelong commitment. He took the time to listen, to understand and to witness firsthand the challenges faced by families with limited resources. His response was not temporary enthusiasm, but a sustained, deeply personal dedication that helped shape the future of the Mission and its outreach in partnership with the Diocese of Erie.
Through Father Peter’s vision and the generosity of the Pallottine Community of the Immaculate Conception Province, the Los Amiguitos—Little Friends Daycare—opened its doors in February 1987. It became a beacon of stability for families who longed for a safe and nurturing place for their children. For 38 years, hundreds of children have found not only education and nourishment within its walls, but love, security and the opportunity to flourish. Parents gained the ability to work and provide for their families with peace of mind—an immeasurable gift rooted in Father Peter’s conviction that the Gospel must always take flesh in concrete acts of charity.
Father Peter’s close collaboration with the Mission Office of the Diocese of Erie strengthened these efforts even further. His partnership with diocesan leadership and mission teams helped ensure that the work in Yucatán remained vibrant, well-supported and rooted in the shared commitment of two communities walking together in faith. He nurtured relationships, encouraged volunteers and consistently saw the Mission as a bridge, uniting Erie with its brothers and sisters in Mérida through solidarity, service and genuine friendship.
His work with the Diocese of Erie was not an isolated effort. It was the natural outpouring of a life shaped by the motto of St. Vincent Pallotti: Caritas Christi urget nos—The love of Christ impels us. That driving force animated Father Peter’s priesthood, from his pastoral care of young people to his international missionary work, to his years of service in the United States Air Force. But it was in the Mission of Friendship that this love bore especially lasting fruit.
Those who served with him remember a priest who never saw boundaries, only opportunities to lift others up. His missionary spirit helped expand the Diocese of Erie’s youth outreach in Yucatán. His encouragement strengthened partnerships across communities and countries. His generosity made possible ministries that continue to transform lives today.
The Mission of Friendship will forever hold Father Peter in grateful memory. His life was a testament to the truth that when friendship becomes mission, and mission becomes love, the world is changed.
May his legacy continue to inspire all who seek to serve Christ in one another.
“Father Peter had a gift for making every person feel seen and valued,” said Indira Suárez, director of the Mission Office of the Diocese of Erie. “His love for the Mission of Friendship was unwavering. He believed deeply in its purpose, and his vision and compassion continue to shape the lives of the families we serve. We will always carry his spirit with us.”
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