Rev. John Chrzan, newly appointed Pastor of St. Gilbert parish in Grayslake, Il., will tell us of his spirituality at work as Associate Pastor at St. Paul of the Cross. In our high volume, vibrant, energetic parish, he had to let some things go while remaining welcoming, gracious, and inviting. Hear what this happy priest says about Our Lady, Mary, Untying knots. Hear this tip we all can use turning our knots over to God thru the intercession of Mary.

Maudette Carr, Hospice Caregiver, will share a story of her faith at work, being called to something she feared. Hear how Maudette overcame her fear. See the care and respect given to two lives soon to end as Maudette embraced her calling with open loving arms of Jesus made real.

Stephanie Teresi, a student and Catechist Volunteer, will share a story of a young person who confided not believing in God to her. Hear what the same student said at the end of the year. Hear the empathy she feels towards her students who are not much younger than her. Hear tips we all can use, especially teaching CCD, a religious education program.

MARTHA RODRIGUEZ: is an Adult Care Giver and active parish volunteer at San Felipe de Jesus. Martha will describe her faith journey from a “reluctant” RCIA leader to an involved person who simply trusts the Lord. This trust has led her to be active in her church and to focus her work life on service to others. She will describe her moving from concern about “having” to focusing on “giving.”

Mary Kowal will speak on faith as a bridge. Hear her family’s inspiring war time faith journey as survivors of the holocaust. She said: Only through faith did we make it”. Inspired by the Little Flower, hear how her faith leads her as a volunteer to daily small works of charity.