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.

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.

Brian Brown, a chaplain, will tell us what it takes to be a lay chaplain. Hear about a hospital patient and the trust she placed in Brian. Hear how grace permeated that encounter. Hear tips on being a good listener that we all can use. Hear tips on dealing with the home bound. Hear how Brian felt a tender part of his heart touched by God through his ministry.

Thomas Schippers, a judge, will present a defendant’s comeback story. After many transgressions, following depression and drug violations, a psychological report indicated the defendant’s low self worth. Hear the judge’s surprising answer. See how rehabilitation can work in the court system. Hear tips on living a life that makes a difference, and tips on making work fulfilling.

Sr. Katherine (Kit) Gray is a long time educator, facilitator and administrator with experience in education and health care. Sr. Kit describes how her faith led her to develop systems for mentoring many hundreds of health care professionals in ethical, patient-centered service. She discusses the Catholic underpinnings of health care, and the values that Catholic health care provides to patients, families and the community.