I grew up on a farm in Maytown, IL.   St. Patrick’s church was the center of our community and the center of our family life. I graduated from Newman Central Catholic High School in Sterling, IL, received my bachelor’s degree from the College of St. Francis in Joliet, IL, and my Masters in Education from Nazareth College in Rochester, NY.  Deacon John and I have been married 58 years.  We have 4 children and 10 grandchildren.

 

From the time I was a child, I wanted to be a teacher.  I taught 1st grade through 4th grade in public schools in Illinois, California, New York, and Connecticut.  For over 50 years I have taught in Religious Education programs in those same states.  Since moving from New York to Illinois in 2007, I have taught the Sacraments class at SCB.  This class is a bit different every year as it prepares students for sacraments they have not received at the “usual” times.  Over the years I have prepared students from 3rd grade to senior in high school for Baptism, Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation.  I also serve on the Family Faith Committee.

 

My husband and I are active members of the SCB conference of St. Vincent DePaul and for 5 years I have been part of the planning group for the Friends of the Poor Walk, our biggest fund raiser.  He and I also prepare engaged couples for marriage.  My most recent ministry has been at the nursing home where my brother is a resident.  Twice a month I do a communion service for the Catholic residents.  I have fallen in love with this ministry.  People who are physically unable to attend Mass at their church are hungry for the Eucharist and being part of a a small faith community at the nursing home.

 

Deacon John and I have had the joy of traveling all over the world over the years.  We have enjoyed trips with our grandchildren as well.  Now we love our two month escape from winter at the beach in Florida.