2017 Award Honorees
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Lumen Gentium Recipients
Maureen Agwuncha
Holy Cross Parish, Austin
Maureen has been a great resource to the parish. For several years under her leadership, the St. Augustine Society has been organizing St. Augustine Mass Day on the last Sunday of August and the Motherland Mass Day on the last Sunday of February. Both celebrations are very popular and the parish looks forward to them as many visitors and parishioners join in spirit-filled worship with the music and readings done in various languages and a wonderful reception. Maureen and her family have also helped many families in the parish with babysitting, picking up people for parish events and assisting individuals with various needs.
Armando & Angelita Alonzo
Santa Teresa Parish, Bryan
Armando and Angelita are native Texans from the Texas Valley and have been members of the parish since 2005. They have been married for 36 years with two grown daughters, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. They have been involved in parish social ministry for the last 10 years. They are dedicated to advocating on behalf of immigrant families and individuals in the Bryan-College Station area. Armando is a member of the Diocesan Mission Council, and Angelita is on the Diocesan Catholic Campaign for Human Development Committee.
†Sam & Tricia Barina
St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, College Station
Sam and Tricia have been mainstay volunteers in the parish for many years. In perhaps her greatest and most recent contribution, Tricia has served for more than five years as the Art and Environment chair. She almost single-handedly decorated the church for the liturgical seasons during this time. Sam, who at 51 passed away last August from an unexpected and rare disease, was always there at her side, helping with everything. They modeled a beautiful Christian marriage and what it meant to be true servants of Christ.
Martha S. Bettis
St. Margaret Parish, Giddings
Martha has dedicated her time to the parish since 1999. She enjoys helping parishioners and loves to be involved in church activities. She professionally handles scheduling and organizing church events. She once was the only secretary and managed to single-handedly do the bulletin, schedule events, fill out forms for sacraments, weddings and quinceñeras, took care of payroll, ledgers, etc. She goes out of her way to help any person who enters the office. She is a very caring, loyal and hardworking lady. God has rewarded her with an excellent talent in administration. Martha retired at the end of April after more than 18 years of service to the parish. She will be missed.
Mark Bilski
St. Stanislaus Parish, Chappel Hill
Mark has been chair of the Pastoral Council for seven years. He has been very helpful and active, especially during the restoration of the church and now during the interior restoration of the Parish Hall. Mark and his wife attend Mass regularly and are extraordinary ministers of holy Communion. Mark can be relied on for assistance with questions about maintenance and upkeep of the parish premises.
Gigi Bost
St. Margaret Mary Parish, Cedar Park
Gigi has been an active parishioner since 2013. She is head of the Ministry to the Sick and Homebound and is active in on the Divine Mercy and SpringFest committees. Last year, she handled all of the arrangements to bring and show the Divine Mercy documentary at the parish. She is always ready to serve wherever she is needed and does everything with the love of Christ and a servant’s heart.
Stephen & Michelle Braden
St. Joseph Parish, Bryan
Stephen is a lector at Sunday Mass, an active member of the Knights of Columbus and participates in Men’s Faith Formation. Michelle is president of the Pastoral Council, director of the Hand Bell Choir, and coordinates Bible and book studies. She is also a Kindergarten catechist and an active member of the Women’s Guild. Together, Steve, a primary care physician, and Michelle, go on an annual medical mission to Guatemala.
Ruben & Maria Bucio
St. Paul Parish, Austin
Ruben and Maria are very involved in Hispanic ministry at the parish. Ruben led the Grupo de Oracion for three years and now Maria leads it. He is the main coordinator of the ushers and takes an active part in the parish fair, as well as in many of the parish activities in the course of the year, as does Maria.
Thi Diep Bui
Holy Vietnamese Martyrs Parish, Austin
Thi Diep has been a parishioner since 1992. She is a devout Catholic, a great example of strong faith, a very humble and joyful person. She embodies the poor widow mentioned in Mark 12. She is a dedicated member of the Women’s Club “thanh vien trong Hoi Cac Ba Me Cong Giao.” At almost 80, she is full of energy. She spends many hours in the kitchen preparing food for weekly fundraising events, the annual festival and all the special occasions. At times, she was the last person to leave the kitchen after a long day of preparation and cleaning – all with a smile. She is a great example of faith and of service especially to the young people.
Chaplain Mary Clare Carden
CHI St. Joseph Health System, Bryan
Mary Clare goes beyond her ministry responsibility to respond to the needs of the poor in the community. It is common for her to drive discharged patients home to see if social needs are being met. She initiated CharityTracker, a database that allows community agencies and health care system to work together to meet the needs of discharged patients. She initiated and coordinates the Faith Advisory Committee and the relationship with the Society of St. Vincent DePaul, the Brazos Interfaith Network and the Episcopal Health Foundation for a grant for a health resource center in Bryan. She is also a regional trainer for Bridges Out of Poverty.
Aniceto & Herminia Carreño
St. Helen Parish, Georgetown
Aniceto and Herminia have been members since 1990. Herminia began as a lector and Aniceto joined her. Herminia has been the coordinator of the Spanish lectors since 2000. Together, they were part of the committee to start a Spanish Mass and brought the Movimiento Familiar Cristiano to the parish. Herminia was part of the Our Faith ~ Our Legacy Committee. For the last 15 years Herminia has organized the celebration of the Virgin of Guadalupe and decorated the church for the celebration. She is coordinator for the Guadalupana Society. Together, they mentor couples preparing for marriage and are guides in the Encounter of Faith for couples.
Robert & Aida Casillas
Ascension Parish, Bastrop
Robert and Aida are dedicated Catholics who are well-known in the parish. They have been such a great example in serving and working hard in so many ministries. They have shown wonderful support in their leadership and selfless acts of time and dedication to the community. Robert is the president of Pastoral Council and Hispanic Ministry. Together they have been extraordinary ministers of holy Communion, and taught RCIA and marriage preparation.
Filomena Contreras
St. Mary Parish, Mexia
Filo has been involved in various ministries for an extended period of time. She is a lector, extraordinary minister of holy Communion, volunteers in the religious education program and leads the church’s fundraising events.
Manuel Cortez
Diocese of Austin
A long-time Secular Franciscan, Manuel has faithfully and compassionately served the people of the diocese in numerous capacities over the years. Over the last 10 years, he has been a spiritual director, including three years on the formation team for the Institute for Spiritual Direction. A founding member of the bishop’s Ethics and Integrity in Ministry Review Board, Manuel recently retired from that role after almost 15 years. He is a licensed psychiatrist, and over the last few years of his service to the Ethics and Integrity in Ministry program, Manuel served as Coordinator of Victim Assistance and Pastoral Support.
John & Mildred Darsey
St. Mary Mission, Pin Oak
For many years Mildred and Johnny have arrived 30 to 45 minutes before Mass to open the church and prepare it for worship. For a long time John was the designated handyman, changing light bulbs in the very high ceiling fixtures, repairing doors, windows, benches or whatever needed fixing. He still keeps an eye on the church, hall and cemetery by driving by twice a day to check on them. Mildred served as a lector, extraordinary minister of holy Communion and as a member of the Pastoral Council. She is also currently in charge of renting the Parish Hall. Both have served as auction chair for the annual fall festival and continue to serve as “dessert chair.”
Maria Delgado
St. Joseph Parish, Killeen
Maria is a confirmation catechist and is involved with several ministries including Cursillo, the choir and Sagrado Corazon. She is always available when needed. She is a well-known person in the community and has a deep love for the parish, the church and Christ. She is reliable and gets the job done. She has a servant’s heart and does not let setbacks or challenges discourage her.
Deacon E. Generes “Doots” Dufour
Diocese of Austin
After serving 21 years in the U.S. Army, Deacon “Doots” joined the
Diocese of Austin in 1986 as director of the Office of Criminal Justice Ministry. Through his efforts and assistance, many former inmates have found guidance and resources to successfully re-enter civilian life. Deacon Doots has studied the Criminal Justice system for decades and knows what changes are needed within the system to reduce recidivism and methods of punishment and frequently advocates for such changes before the Texas Legislature. He served as the chair of the Texas Catholic Correctional Ministers, an organization that provides oversight and direction for the many men and women who are involved in Catholic correctional ministry at the state, diocesan and local parish levels. Deacon Doots attended the University of Notre Dame before proudly serving in the Korean War and Vietnam War. He retired from the Diocese of Austin in June at the age of 87.
Janice Easter
St. Mary Parish, Caldwell
Janice has been a lifelong parishioner. She has played the organ for the choir for decades. She dedicates countless hours in the church practicing new music, rehearsing with the choir and playing for special services. She has never expected to be lauded for her service. She works as the campus secretary for Caldwell High School. She is active in the parish as well as in the community.
Virgilio & Georgette Escutia
St. Louis Parish, Austin
Virgilio and Georgette have been active members since 1993. Their service has been centered with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Quietly, behind the scenes, this couple has tirelessly served the poor over 20 years. They have visited the needy, dispensing support and resources to help families survive financial crisis, health emergencies, homelessness and hunger every week. They have used their garage as a warehouse for furniture, household goods and clothing for the poor. They have taken leadership roles and mentored new volunteers for service. They are exemplary Catholics who truly live their faith by their dedicated service to society’s most vulnerable.
Rodolfo & Rebecca Espinoza
St. John the Evangelist Parish, San Marcos
Rudy and Becky have served as chairs of the Fiesta for several years. They work very humbly, side by side, through many sleepless night of preparing and organizing what is best for the parish. They have excellent communication skills and are excellent planners. They give their all to the community and schools of San Marcos. Rudy is active in the Knights of Columbus Council 3458, where he has served as Grand Knight.
Joe & Barb Frantz
St. Ignatius Martyr Parish, Austin
Joe and Barb live their Catholic faith every day. They attend daily Mass often staying behind to help with projects, large or small, in the church or on the grounds. No task is too menial for them. It would appear that no project is too daunting. They represented our deacon at his ordination to the priesthood, speaking on the parish’s behalf to the ordaining bishop. Barb and Joe are extremely generous always asking “What can we do next?”
Gary & Marcella Franzetti
Holy Rosary Mission, Frenstat
Gary has been a choir member for many years. He is a Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the KJT and served on the Pastoral Council. Heserves as usher and on the maintenance committee. He does yard work for Father Tom Hanus, a retired priest living in the area, and helps him in many ways. Marcella was a choir member, the organist for many years and a KJZT officer. She is the president of the Altar Society, a former president of the Brazos Valley Deanery of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, and former Finance Council member. She worked many hours for the parish bazaar. She helps with the First Friday Mass at St. Joseph Manor nursing home in Caldwell and organizes funeral lunches.
Joseph Gonzales
University Catholic Center, Austin
Joseph has throughout his university career been an exemplary and active Catholic. He has been active in Awakening retreats, has served as a liturgy coordinator and extraordinary minister of holy Communion, and has worked as a part-time receptionist at the center. His generosity with his time and talents have been an outstanding example to the community, and his behind-the-scenes support of so many ministries has demonstrated his commitment to service. He has done this with a consistently positive demeanor and contagious faith.
Raymond & Barbara Greger
St. Ann Parish, Rosebud
Raymond and Barbara are active members and serve on the Parish Council. They work as a team at the St. Ann Center. Raymond volunteers as the handyman around the parish grounds. Barbara is a member of the Ladies Guild, a money counter at Saturday evening Mass and volunteers at the Rosebud Pantry. They have a deep faith, love their church, and it shows in their participation, donations and the example they set forth.
Teresa (Terry) Gregory
St. Elizabeth Parish, Pflugerville
Ms. Terry as she is sometimes called, and Granny as she is known in the office, is such a beautiful soul and an integral part of the parish. She is a daily communicant and shares her love and enthusiasm of Jesus Christ with anyone who will listen. She is a weekly office volunteer. She proofreads the bulletin and folds the children’s bulletins. She is active with the Ladies Club and the Sewing Circle, and willingly gives of her time to any ministry that needs a hand. She is not afraid to speak her mind, which is nothing but kindness. She has more energy and stamina than 10 teenagers.
Kathy Guajardo
St. Joseph Parish, Manor
Kathy has been the president of Society of St. Vincent De Paul since 1995. She has been involved in canned food drives and helping the poor. She also helps the KJT with the Fiesta bingo and plays the organ at Saturday Mass.
Susan Gustavson
St. Paul Parish, Smithville
Susan is an active member of the parish who has served as a lector and extraordinary minister of holy Communion. She was the youth group leader in the past and now serves on the youth group leadership team. She is a member the choir, an altar server and is a post-confirmation catechist. She helps to plan and set up for holy days and has led the music ministry for several years. She attended and provided music for all three Masses every weekend. She has co-facilitated numerous Bible studies, Women of Grace and The Catholicism Project for adult education. She participates in the annual parish bazaar. She cleans and polishes the vessels for Mass each weekend and spot shampoos the church carpet. She used her artistic talents to repair/refurbish one of the Stations of the Cross plaques that fell and broke. She is a member of the Third Order Franciscans and does volunteer work in conjunction with her Franciscan family. She also volunteers with Mobile Loaves and Fishes in Austin.
Patricia Guthneck
St. Albert the Great Parish, Austin
Pat serves as chair of the Pastoral Council. She serves in the Arts & Environment Ministry and belongs to the Divine Mercy Cenacle, the Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court 2220 and serves as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion. Pat does about everything and is a perfect example of Christian witness and service in the parish. Her very supportive spouse of many years Jerry, passed away last year.
Kenneth & Velinda Haltom
St. Francis On The Brazos Parish, Waco
Kenneth works very hard to maintain the church facilities. Velinda is a strong asset to the community. Their family is very faithfully active at the parish. They are a true example of faith to others.
Dan & Sandy Hapenney
St. Louis Parish, Waco
Dan and Sandy are true workhorses in the parish. Dan helps with the television ministry and records and publishes adult lectures for the whole parish. Sandy is a catechist and helps with coordinating the Youth Mass and teaches adult religious education. They are both very dedicated to the parish and schools.
Helen Havelka
Holy Trinity Parish, Corn Hill
Helen is one of the most active members of the parish. She volunteers countless hours. She served as chair of the Pastoral Council, serves on the Cemetery Committee, is active in the KJT, and serves on the RCIA Team. She also serves on the Parish Plan, Vocations, and Art and Environment committees. She coordinates flowers for the sanctuary, serves as co-chair of the annual Parish Bazaar, always helps with meals and social activities of the parish and is also active with social ministry outside the parish.
Ronnie & Karen Hinze
Christ the King Parish, Belton
Ronnie and Karen Hinze have been parishioners since 1987. Ronnie’s various religious and community activities depict his compassion to help others. He has held several officer positions with the Knights of Columbus. Together, they served as chairs for the parish’s main fundraiser, 2017 Spring Fest. Karen has sung in the choir and played musical instrumentals during liturgical services. For more than 20 years, they developed and led the “Respect for Life” ministry.
James Kahlig
Church of the Visitation Parish, Westphalia
James is a good Catholic layman with a strong faith and a joyful spirit of service. He is an exemplary husband, father and grandfather. He is involved in servant leadership roles in the various ministries and apostolates in the life and liturgy of the parish with a generous heart. He serves both the young and the aged in the communities locally and internationally to spread the joy of the Gospel.
Peter Kunz
St. Monica Parish, Cameron
Pete is a lifelong member of St. Monica who attended school at St. Anthony. He has served as an usher, extraordinary minister of holy Communion and is an active member of the Knight of Columbus. Due to his age and health, he has had to step down from many ministries, but he remains a steadfast example of faith.
Bill Leek
St. Jerome Parish, Waco
Bill has been a parishioner for many years and is involved in multiple ministries: the Men of St. Jerome, baptism preparation and Bible Study. He is an extraordinary minister of holy Communion. Along with his late wife, Chiquita, he was instrumental in organizing the adoration ministry at the parish.
Vincent & Amy Lopez
St. Peter Catholic Student Center, Waco
Amy and Vincent have been heavily involved in the Waco Catholic community for many years. They have assisted with youth ministry at Sacred Heart and St. Louis parishes. At St. Peter, they helped with RCIA and marriage preparation. Amy became the center coordinator and bookkeeper in 2014 and has done a wonderful job in juggling many different tasks that come with working in campus ministry. She has been a motherly figure for many of the college students. Vincent has also been a great help in many ways, ever ready to respond to needs that arise. He always has a joyful attitude and shows caring and interest in the students’ lives. They are an excellent example of a married vocation.
Sylvia Maedgen
St. Luke Parish, Temple
Sylvia has been a member of the parish for many years. She has shown great leadership and has always shared her gifts when called upon to serve in any ministry including the Pastoral Council, Stewardship Committee, as a catechist, in sacramental preparation, in the choir, at fundraisers and in the Women’s Society.
Joe Jr. & Alice Maldonado
San José Parish, Austin
Joe and Alice have been lifelong members of the parish. Alice began serving the church at the age of 12 as a catechist. Joe and Alice married at the parish in 1959, and have served the parish and surrounding community through many different ministries. They have served in missions, at youth retreats, were heavily involved with the Catholic Youth Organization, helped with Grupo de Oracion and with Kerygmatic Evangelization retreats. They sing in the choir, are extraordinary ministers of holy Communion and are active in the Rosary Ministry.
Kathy McCormick
St. John Vianney Parish, Round Rock
Kathy has a most pleasant and warm personality, which exudes a truly deep faith. Her involvement in parish life stems simply from her desire to serve and lead others closer to Christ. She serves as a lector, extraordinary minister of holy Communion, in the Women’s Prayer Group and spirituality programs. She is a spiritual counselor and director.
Laurie Metzler
St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Austin
Laurie is retiring this year as the parish liturgist after 12 years of service. She began working in the parish in 2005. She has devoted her lifetime to ministry and service in the church. At all times, she gave her heart and her soul to the parish. She was always available to ensure the various ministries of the parish worked smoothly.
George Meurer
St. Mary, Church of the Assumption Parish, West
George has been taking the Eucharist to nursing homes and leading the rosary for more than 40 years. Since the explosion, he has visited the displaced residents in Waco and Hillsboro. He has worked with Meals on Wheels for more than 15 years. He is a charter member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and is active in four other parish groups. He has volunteered for Westfest and the West rodeo for more than 25 years.
Albert Michalka
Sts. Cyril and Methodius Mission, Marak
Albert served as a lector for 15 years, an extraordinary minister of holy Communion for 46 years and is still active in this ministry. He takes the Eucharist to the sick and homebound. He has been an active member of Knights of Columbus Council 10186 since 1953. He has served on the Pastoral Council and manages the meal ticket booth at the annual picnic. He assists with bereavement meals and directs the Stations of the Cross during Lent. He has volunteered with the cleaning of the chalices, the cleaning of the church and with the grounds keeping. He is always eager to fill in wherever needed without hesitation.
Jose Salvador Montealvo Oviedo
Sacred Heart Parish, Austin
At his young age Salvador has belonged to and led the youth group. He has taught religious education to young people and adults, has provided formation to many parish ministries and has helped with retreats and events like V Encuentro at different times. Salvador’s positive attitude has influenced many people of different ages in the community.
Felix & Lori Munson
St. William Parish, Round Rock
Felix and Lori have been dedicated parishioners for 30 years. Their time and dedication to the parish is unwavering and can be seen in the different ministry work they are involved from the Knights of Columbus to the building and capital campaigns. They are very passionate about the parish and can always be relied on to provide sound advice and honest feedback. This passion is not only contained within the church but can be seen in their philanthropic endeavors around the city of Round Rock.
Huddie Murray
St. Austin Parish, Austin
Unassuming as she is active, Huddie is a dynamo engaged in the parish chapter of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the Thursday Outreach Program. With quiet grace she has organized and energized the Parish Christmas Basket program that delivers more than 200 boxes of toys, food and clothing to needy families each Christmas.
Chong Nelson
St. Paul Chong Hasang Parish, Harker Heights
Chong is a charter member and faithful parishioner. She is married to Hoyt Nelson, a retired member of the U.S. Army. She is always willing to help in any way she can, a real “Anna in the Temple.” She is an extraordinary minister of holy Communion, a sacristan, member of the Legion of Mary and member of the St. Paul Chong Hasang Korean Women’s Association. She is one of the people always helping set up for parish activities. Chong is also a representative of the church with the local Korean Community. She and her husband have been faithful and generous supporters of the parish.
Rudy Nevarez
St. Martin de Porres Parish, Dripping Springs
Rudy is a lector and has helped lead the Monday night Bible study. He has a great interest in helping people grow in their knowledge of Scripture. He has been the head of the parish grounds committee for many years and helps to maintain the parish’s 28 acres. He is a long-term member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and helps with weekly food runs as well as home visits. Rudy is a Knight of Columbus, extraordinary minister of holy Communion and sacristan. He has also been on the ACTS Team and has a devotion to Eucharistic Adoration.
Delfino & Magdalena Orozco
St. Ann Parish, Somerville
Delfino is a second-grade catechist and an officer in the Knights of
Columbus. He volunteers to do many maintenance projects around the parish — especially yardwork. Magdalena is the parish secretary and wears many other hats. She is a lector, extraordinary minister of holy Communion and also sets up for almost every parish function.
Jose & Maria Ortega
St. Eugene Parish, McGregor
Jose is a member of the Spanish choir. Maria has been a part-time secretary and bookkeeper at St. Eugene in McGregor and Our Lady of San Juan Mission in Moody for five years. Together, they volunteer for the parish festival and fundraising activities. They volunteer to clean the church for a month each year.
Diane Parker
St. Patrick Parish, Hutto
Diane is an exemplary model of kindness, service and dedication. She is a pillar in the parish community and a blessing to all.
Felix & Bernice Picha
St. Joseph Parish, Waco
Felix and Bernice are long-time, active members of the parish. Felix is a Knight of Columbus. Bernice is a member of the Catholic Daughters of America, leads the lector ministry, is on the Liturgy Committee and sews banners and altar cloths. They are both extraordinary ministers of holy Communion and serve the elderly with the Meals on Wheels. They work together as a team and support the programs of the parish.
Glenn Pritchett
St. Stephen Parish, Salado
Glenn has distinguished himself as an example of faithful commitment to Christian life and discipleship. He is a model and a great example as he brings deep reverence and devotion in the practice of his faith and active participation in ministry. His untiring efforts and resilience ensured the new church was built and dedicated. He is very passionate in the care of the sick in the community, serves as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and as a volunteer catechist in the Youth Faith Formation of the parish.
Michael Raia
Diocese of Austin
Michael has given his time and professional talents to serve diocesan youth ministry for many years in a variety of roles in the diocese, most notably in the areas of environment, liturgy and music at the Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference.
Gabe & Yvonne Rocha
St. Michael Parish, Uhland
Gabe and Yvonne are an example of love and humility. They both generously volunteer a lot of their time at the parish. Gabe is a member of the Knights of Columbus and an usher. Yvonne is a catechist, lector and member of the Catholic Daughters of America. They run a booth during the annual festival and help with kitchen duties. They are always willing to help out when needed.
Darlene Ryan
Holy Family Parish, Copperas Cove
Darlene has been an active member of the parish for 15 years. She generously shares her artistic talents in various parish activities. She makes a Holy Hour with husband Mike on a weekly basis in Holy Family’s Adoration Chapel.
George Rymer and Rita Molina-Rymer
Santa Rosa Parish, Andice
George and Rita have served as leaders and members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Society for six years. In that time, membership has more than doubled to more than 40 volunteers who provide pantry food, household supplies, diapers and other necessities to more than a hundred families per month. They assist up to 10 families per month financially and volunteers pack and deliver over 175 food packs for children in the Florence School District. Recently, they arranged for Catholic Social Services to provide an informational meeting regarding immigration issues for those in need of documentation assistance. They are always open to ideas and programs that they can use to serve those in greatest need in the community and surrounding area.
Mark Santos
St. Theresa Parish, Austin
Mark is a parishioner who offers visionary support at all levels. He serves as president of the Pastoral Council and was the author of the parish pastoral plan. He also leads the successful Catalyst Men’s Ministry, a weekly gathering to strengthen faith and community of among men of the parish. He also serves as the head of the continuation committee for Christ Renews His Parish. As a member of the diocesan School Board, Mark brought considerable skill to the process of re- visioning the administrative structure of St. Theresa Catholic School, seeing to the success of its leadership. He also gives of his time as a lector and a school coach. He and his wife Deri have two children who attend St. Theresa Catholic School.
Garry Schellberg
Sacred Heart Parish, La Grange
Garry is the coordinator for the parish Ethics and Integrity in Ministry program. He is a member of the Finance Council and chair of the current capital campaign. In these roles, he sometimes works in the background while at other times he is a visible leader within the parish. He is generous in his charity to the community by volunteering and giving leadership to the local food pantry. He is faithful to Sunday Mass and an example of putting his faith into action.
Bob & Rosanne Schmidt
St. Mary Parish, Brenham
Bob worked diligently on the Finance Council for several years. He was the director of the capital campaign to raise funds for a new air conditioning system. He has very good relational skills, which helped make the fundraiser quite successful. Rosanne has served as a catechist, in youth ministry, at the Summer Festival and in many other parish activities. She is currently president of the Pastoral Council.
Deborah Marie Silvey
St. Joseph Parish, Rockdale
Debbie has been the parish cantor for a long time. She sings every Sunday and leads the congregation with her beautiful voice. Throughout these years, she has shown her deep commitment and love of the Eucharist. She also volunteers as a catechist’s aide.
Harley & Cathy Smith
St. Mary, Church of the Assumption, Waco
Harley served as an adult catechist, leader of the parish adult formation team, as a lector and an extraordinary minister of holy Communion. In addition he has supported his wife Cathy who has served as the parish business administrator of the parish for 14 years. In this capacity she has been involved in and a part of many areas of parish life. In addition to her regular duties of maintaining the financial records of the parish and Holy Cross Cemetery, she prepares the parish bulletin each week, orders supplies for various ministries and administers the Ethics and Integrity in Ministry program. Cathy has served as the chair of the Bereavement Group, as co-chair of the Festival Committee, as well as a member of the Women’s Guild, a catechist, adult catechist, a lector, an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and rosary leader.
Josie Spencer
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Austin
Josie is a long-time devoted member of the parish. She is open and gregarious and has a deep commitment to charity and kindness. She evangelizes all God’s people through her service on the RCIA team, Las Carmelitas, Sacred Heart of Jesus and Las Guadalupanas sodalities. She serves on the annual Jamaica Liturgy committees. She serves as lector, extraordinary minister of holy Communion, usher, hospitality minister and as sacristan for daily Mass. She took the initiative of composing bilingual Mass binders with hymns for the Chapel for all to follow during Mass. She has been a living testimony of her Catholic faith.
Georgia Stermer
St. Joseph Parish, Cyclone
Georgia is a lifelong member who received all of her sacraments at the parish. She married Roy in 1947, and raised a family of three girls and five boys. In 1975, Roy was diagnosed with lupus, which eventually led to paralysis. Georgia lovingly cared for him while he was incapacitated, helped him with his daily routine and brought him to Mass. He died in 1982. She continued to work until her retirement when she took up gardening and quilting. She continues to take her turn in cleaning the church, attends daily Mass and keeps the votive candles burning as she remembers her family, their trials, tribulations and celebrations in her prayers.
Carl & Liza Struck
St. Ferdinand Parish, Blanco
Carl and Liza came to the parish, and Carl’s boyhood home, a few years ago after serving in the military. They quickly became very active in the parish. Carl directs the choir and Liza plays the organ. They are very active members of the ACTS program, but most especially they give of themselves in working in youth ministry where they help lead the youth to a deeper encounter with Christ. They practice their faith, giving witness to the glory of God at Sunday and weekday Masses.
Rita Summy
Good Shepherd Mission, Johnson City
Rita was a founding member of the mission and has given of herself in so many areas of church life as a catechist and chair of festivals and dinners. She is currently a member of the Finance Council. She actively practices her faith by attending Sunday Mass and the weekday Mass.
Jacque Tate
St. Mary, Our Lady of the Lake Parish, Lago Vista
Jacque has been a member of the parish for 20 years. She lives her faith and has been active in many ministries. She has served as a lector, pro- life coordinator, works with the youth in various capacities and has organized multiple charity drives. Jacque lives her baptismal call in an extraordinary way through stewardship and leadership in both the parish and the greater community.
Vancie Todaro
St. Anthony Parish, Bryan
Vancie is a lifetime member of the parish who celebrated all her sacraments there. She served as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion for more than 40 years, as a lector more than 20 years and on the Finance Council for 35 years. She is long-time member of the Altar Society and served as president for six years and chair of its spaghetti dinner for 10 years. She is a member of the Holy Rosary Society and has coordinated the preparation of the Lamb’s Bread for Holy Thursday for 67 years. Early on, she was involved in the Children of Mary Organization and Catholic Youth Organization.
Juan Trevino
Our Lady of San Juan Mission, Moody
Juan is an active member who teaches in the religious education program. He is also a hospitality minister. He is also active in fundraising activities for the mission.
Brian & Debra Sue Trinque
St. Mary Cathedral Parish, Austin
Brian and Debra Sue give endlessly to the Cathedral and Cathedral School by volunteering their time, talent and treasure without hesitation. Brian coordinates the parish ministry and is a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 14055. Debra Sue is active with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and St. Matthew Ministry (money counters).
Dick & Mary Urbanowski
St. John Neumann Parish, Austin
Dick and Mary Urbanowski have been dedicated parishioners since 2000. They have served in a variety of capacities. Dick has served as the co-chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, a member of the Finance Council and the Pastoral Council. He is also a dedicated lector and usher. Mary invests her time on the bereavement committee, the Mary and Martha Guild and serves the retirement community of Querencia, participating in their Communion services and Masses and generally, brings the Eucharist to those who are unable to attend Mass.
Ciriaco & Nancy Valdez
St. Mary Catholic Center, College Station
Ciriaco and Nancy have been involved at the Catholic Center, especially with the Hispanic community, since they were graduate students in the 1980s. They have participated for many years in the Spanish catechism. They served also as Mass coordinators, lectors and extraordinary ministers of holy Communion. They serve as leaders of the Catholic Hispanic community leading some of the weekly Spanish rosaries, the Virgin of Guadalupe celebrations, the Spanish Way of the Cross. They also participated in the Hispanic Married Couples group. They have been a sponsor couple to couples preparing for marriage. For the last few years, they have been the coordinators of the monthly Spanish convivios. For a number of years Nancy worked part-time at Good Samaritan, then at Catholic Charities of Central Texas teaching parenting classes in Spanish.
Mario & Elizabeth Vallejo
St. Peter Mission, Goldthwaite
Mario and Elizabeth have been parishioners for more than 25 years. Their two sons were altar servers. Elizabeth has been active on the Parish Council for four years. She has coordinated religious education for four years and is currently a lector. Mario helps Elizabeth where needed with religious education students, preparing and serving food, running errands and anything else needed. They have both participated in local community events involving children from the parish.
Ned F. Vanders
Diocese of Austin
Ned has served as the Superintendent of the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin since 2005. He retired on June 5, but will continue to serve as a consultant though the fall term. In his tenure as superintendent, he opened two schools: Santa Cruz Catholic School in Buda and St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School in Austin. In that time, he also added an assistant superintendent and director of marketing for Catholic schools to the diocesan administration. During his 47 years in Catholic education, Ned has served as a teacher, campus minister, dean of students and principal.
Amanda Villarreal
Diocese of Austin
Amanda has advanced diocesan young adult ministry in a tremendous way by serving as the founding president of the Austin chapter of Young Catholic Professionals. She has not only completed two years as a volunteer with Young Catholic Professionals, she has also given her time as a participant and now a facilitator and coordinator of the diocesan Ascend leadership development program.
Helen Wallace
St. Michael Mission, Burlington
Helen always cares and takes time to help in any situation. If it is cleaning the church or rectory, or preparing to celebrate a funeral, she is always ready to help. If she cannot be there in person, she will make sure to send food. She takes time to send cards to the elderly. Her kindness and sharing are seen in all she does for the parish and community.
Stan & Joanne Weik
St. Mary Parish, San Saba
Stan and Joanne have been members of the parish for 10 years. During this time they have been active on both the Parish and Finance councils. Stan is a member of the Knights of Columbus. He is currently the city manager for San Saba and both he and his wife are involved in the Keep San Saba Beautiful project, as well as other community events and parish events. Joanne is a member of the Ladies of St. Mary’s. For the last two years Joanne has averaged 30 hours per week coordinating the capital campaign and building project, which is in the planning stage for a new religious education facility and Parish Hall. She also assists in the parish office by volunteering to keep the church database current.
Rex & Carol Wilson
St. Mary Parish, Wimberley
Rex and Carol are active parishioners who have many years of devoted and time-consuming service. Rex has served as president of the Pastoral Council, ACTS retreat director and team member for several retreats, Vacation Bible School leader and is currently the founding director of the St. Mary Stephen’s ministry. Carol serves as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion, sings in the choir and has been the director of the annual parish garage sale for several years.
Patrick & Elizabeth Wysocki
St. Paul Parish, Smithville
Patrick and Liz have been an inspiration for others by participating in many parish activities. They are music directors of the parish and its mission church in Kovar. Patrick was Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus and is a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus, a seventh- grade catechist and parish website designer and host. Liz serves as secretary of the Pastoral Council and is a member of the Altar Society and Bereavement committees. She helps with different booths at the annual bazaar. Together, they help with the church maintenance and cleaning and lead a children’s choir. Their service, dedication and contributions to the church reflect their love of Christ and the church.
Sheri Zapata
St. Thomas More Parish, Austin
Sheri spends countless time in a beautifully sacrificial way in prayer on behalf of the petitions of parishioners as lead in the Prayer Line Ministry. Her selfless offering of talents for the building up of God’s kingdom does not stop there. For the least of our brethren she goes above and beyond to provide help as intake for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. As a catechist, Sheri teaches fifth grade. As a faithful steward, she fights for truth and justice in the Salt and Light Ministry.
Tom Zuiss
St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Austin
Tom has been a member of the parish for many years. His love of the outdoors and love of his parish is very evident in all the ways he has volunteered. He helps maintain the parish buildings, whether it’s replacing a light bulb or fixing a leaky faucet. He also is part of a weekly volunteer team that does setup for the many events and activities at the parish. He locks up the buildings once a week, and one of his greatest loves is the parish grounds where he spends countless hours working in the community garden, repairing sprinkler heads, trimming trees, mulching and a variety of other outdoor tasks. What sets Tom apart from others is he gives of his time and talent whenever needed, and very often without even being asked.
Alejandro and Ibeth Arzola
St. Matthew Mission, Rogers
Phil and Mary Ann Everett
St. Mary Parish, Temple
Mercedes V. Sanchez
Our Mother of Sorrows Parish, Burnet
David Widmer
Holy Cross Mission, Bertram