At 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 13th, and for a couple of hours thereafter, the Alton Amphitheater will become the church home for SS Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church in Alton, Illinois. The parish, led by their new pastor, Fr. Delix Michel, will celebrate the first Catholic Mass held at the new amphitheater and is inviting the community to join in the celebration.

"The Mass, titled "Shall We Gather at the River", will bring our community of the faithful together in an open air celebration," exclaimed Fr. Michel. "This is an opportunity for me to introduce myself and the fine parishioners of SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church to the Riverbend community. We hope everyone will come!"

SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church and School, easily visible from the riverfront, are located in the Christian Hill neighborhood at 717 State St. in Alton, Illinois. Also known as "The Old Cathedral", SSPP Church is 151 years old and former head of the Diocese of Alton. SSPP Catholic School recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, enrolling more than 150 students in grades K-8.

"Everyone is encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair, as there is no permanent seating in place," suggested Ron Tanner, a member of the organizing committee. "With our children and Schola choirs providing music, it should be a memorable worship experience, regardless of your faith preference."

For additional information about this event, the church, or school, contact the church office at 618-465-4221.