I was born and raised in New Albany, Indiana and am the oldest of six children. One of my fondest memories was being taught by my dad how to shoot a bow and arrow, fish and camp. He would also sit with me every day while I practiced my guitar. At the age of 14, I was teaching music in a studio and ordering music. At 18, I worked for Kmart in the automotive and sporting goods departments working my way up to manager. I volunteered at my church, St. Mary’s, in youth ministry and played music weekly for one of our masses. The “band” was together for 15 year until my husband Ron and I, along with our combined family of six, moved to San Antonio, Texas. I finished my undergraduate degree in Texas and began my graduate studies at Oblate School of Theology where I received a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry in 1997 and a Master of Divinity in 2003. While going to school I was teaching theology at Incarnate Word High School and in the adult certification program for the Archdiocese of San Antonio.
In 1996, after our children had grown, Ron and I adopted an older sibling group of four from Child Protective Services. We believe deeply in the gift of children and wanted to do what we could to change young lives. Our “Texas kids” had so many obstacles to overcome, and I am proud of who they have become today. In 2003, another blessing came to us. A beautiful little girl from one of the four was born. Because of circumstances, she was placed in our home and remains with us today. She just finished grade school and is getting ready for the next stage of her life.
I am excited to be able to serve the parish of St. Joseph as Coordinator of Ministries and Liturgy Coordinator for our day school. I love working with Little Church (for 18 months old to age 4), Children’s Liturgy of the Word (Kinder through 3
rd grade) along with Sacramental Preparation. I love talking with people and learning about their life’s story. And I look forward to many more years serving the people of God.