Wrangell Sentinel -

Life is an open book for Fr. Steven Gallagher, the new pastor of St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Petersburg and St. Rose of Lima Parish in Wrangell, and there is one common theme-public service. Fr. Gallagher, 63, is taking over for Fr. Thomas Weise who passed away in December of a heart attack, and the unexpected death resonates with Gallagher.

"Father Thomas was a great priest in this area; he was 16 years younger than I am," Gallagher says. "We all have expiration dates."

For Gallagher, life is about serving others and being thankful for every day. In fifth grade, he remembers wanting...