Mary Jo DiRe, Volunteer, Co-coordinator of the Sunday Supper Program, will tell a journey of how an attempt to establish a PADS homeless shelter in Park Ridge led to the formation of a community-wide effort to feed the hungry. Hear the story of how a challenging time in our community led to creation of a positive and thriving ministry that serves the less fortunate and how her own faith journey became intertwined with that process. Mary Jo will speak about being open to God’s will and the goal of bringing compassion and love to “our little corner of the world.

Tom Gawne, a retired special education teacher, will share an ongoing story of one young man who became a pivoting point for Tom’s own faith life. Hear Tom describe this success story and what Tom learned about the complete goodness of God. Hear Tom unravel his own life’s mystery in this inspiring faith story about a student who became a social worker.

Raymond Pusczan, structural engineer and veteran of 45 years in engineering projects, now retired, will tell us a real life story of workplace intimidation and his response as a Catholic. Hear this unique story of God at work in his heart and its effective outcome. Hear God’s blessings of faith throughout his career in a field of high turnover and never missing a paycheck. Hear wisdom tips: staying current in an ever changing field, working the hours you want vs. the hours needed to meet a deadline, and taking advantage of the sacraments especially mass.

Rene’e Bourke, a Speech Language Pathologist, will share a story of a breakthrough with one of her clients. Hear the humility she felt when she learned of an outcome that made her grateful to God. Hear tips learned from this professional working in special education that we all can use. For example, her job situation calls for empowerment in patience and her tips largely relate to this empowerment.

Terry Madl, Founder and First User, of “Gear” will tell us of an endurance race of his across the Sahara Desert in Africa and how it affected his faith life. Hear the peace he felt in his reconciliation with the death many years ago of his then 3 year old daughter Emalie. Hear about the help of an unexpected friend. Hear how what began as a 3rd quest for a personal best in Marathon Des Sables, the 151 mile endurance race in Morocco, resulted in peace beyond understanding. Hear Terry’s understanding of the real test of the presence of God that comes is how our life is changed always towards loving others.