2019 Lumen Gentium Awardees

Fred & Jovita Aleman
St. Mary Church of the Assumption, Waco
Fred and Jovita are longtime members and serve as extraordinary ministers of holy Communion. As a sponsor couple, they have guided many couples preparing for marriage. Fred is a member of the parish Men’s Club, spearheads the parish V Encuentro Group and coordinates the annual hot rod and custom car show during the parish spring festival. Jovita is a member of the Women’s Guild. They both volunteer their time with the homeless ministry sack lunch program, serving lunches once a week.

Ruben & Sharon Amador
St. Margaret Parish, Giddings
Ruben and Sharon were nominated for their dedication and love of their ministry work.

Santiago & Mary Arana
San José Parish, Austin
Santiago and Mary are longtime parishioners and an exemplary couple in faith and works. They are involved in various ministries, including the choir, extraordinary ministers of holy Communion, Spanish Charismatic prayer group and rosary ministry. They are always ready to volunteer or help.

William & Patricia Barcak
St. Joseph Parish, Rockdale
William and Patricia are well-known and committed parishioners. William is a member of the Knights of Columbus. They participate in liturgical ministries, parish functions and they serve on the Finance Council.

Josie L. Barrett
St. Austin Parish, Austin
Though initially Josie had to be convinced by her family to attend St. Austin, she has become a super parishioner, organizing Christ Renews His Parish retreats for ladies. She is also the faithful secretary to the Parish Council, an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and indefatigable parishioner. She is always a source of common sense and clear planning.

Shirley Bell
Diocese of Austin
For years, Shirley has supported seminarians with homemade cards for birthdays and all major holidays. She has generously covered the seminarians in prayer and corresponds with them as a true spiritual mother – a true Spiritual Work of Mercy. Her prayers have helped hundreds of seminarians in their discernment and formation for the priesthood.

Leonard & Katherine Belyeu
Good Shepherd Mission, Lometa
Leonard and Katherine both sing in the choir and work tirelessly as the directors of religious education. They give of themselves completely for the children in the parish in making sure they see the faith in action.

William “Billy” Beyer
Holy Trinity Parish, Corn Hill
Billy truly has an attitude of service. He has served on the Pastoral Council and Cemetery Committee as well as being in charge of setting up the annual Bazaar. Billy, with his helpers, sets up the outdoor altars for the annual Corpus Christi procession and has spearheaded several projects in recent years. He is very faithful and faith-filled, setting a good example for others to follow.

Victoria Beynon
St. John Neumann Parish, Austin
Victoria works endlessly with the poor, the imprisoned and suffering. She shines brightly with the light of Christ promoting the Gospel in her everyday life. Victoria serves with Catholic Relief Services, Stephen Ministries, the diocesan prison ministry, liturgical ministry, Friends of Chimbote, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, and outreach to the lonely in rehabilitation centers and nursing homes.

Steve & Diana Bosshard
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Gatesville
Steve and Diana are catechists. They lead the rosary before daily Mass. Diana cleans the chapel and prepares the altar linens, making sure the proper colors are displayed. Four nights a week they provide the Word of the Lord to prisoners as volunteer ministers with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Mark & Rebecca Bunte
St. Paul Parish, Smithville
Becky received all her sacraments at the parish and began playing the organ at 12 and continued for 28 years. She is also a member of the Altar Society and balances the books for the Bazaar auction. Mark has been a member since their marriage in 1975. He is a hospitality minister, chair of the Pastoral Council and the Masterplan Building Committee, Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus and a member of the Fourth Degree Assembly. He also served 10 years as mayor of Smithville. He is always ready to help at the parish with his plumbing expertise.

Raymond Leland Butler
St. Thomas More Parish, Austin
Leland has been a parishioner since 2009. He encounters souls with an authentic helping hand, free of judgement. He is a gentle giant with a happy heart and spirit. His gifts are manifest in many different ministries including Man Up, Salt and Light Ministry, RCIA, TEC, Social Outreach and Light of the World Retreats. He is admired and respected by the parish community.

Bill Cain
St. Ferdinand Parish, Blanco
Bill has been an active ministry leader for many years. He has been an ACTS retreat director, core team member and has helped several other parishes start their own teams. He coordinates and trains adult and youth altar servers. He attends daily Mass and is always willing to help with any ministry or work that needs attention in the parsh.

Guillermo & Bertha Castillo Sr.
St. Eugene Parish, McGregor
Guillermo and Bertha have been parishioners for 34 years. They help clean the church grounds, with the annual festival and tamale fundraiser. As part of the bereavement committee, they organize food for funerals.

Jerry & Helen Cervantez
Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Martindale
Jerry and Helen are members of the annual Fiesta committee. Jerry is the president of the parish’s Cristo Rey Men’s Group. They are always willing and ready to serve the parish.

Bill & Judy Cody
St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Austin
Bill and Judy serve as extraordinary ministers of holy Communion and as sacristans for weekend and daily Masses. Judy oversees the church’s cleaning crew, taking special care of all the plants. She is also involved in the bereavement ministry. Bill serves side-by-side with Judy and has been a money counter for many years. He is part of the Thursday Set-Up Crew, which performs a variety of tasks, from setting up tables and chairs to changing light bulbs. Bill also takes on special tasks, such as electrical repairs. They do all this and more with eagerness, love and a smile on their faces.

Chad & Heather Darilek
Our Lady of the Lake Mission, Sunrise Beach
Chad is chair of the Parish Council and a member of the Finance Council. He is an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and a catechist. Parishioners look up to him with respect and confidence. Heather is secretary for the Parish Council and the Finance Council. She helps with the Catholic Services Appeal and cares for the altar linens. Working with them is invigorating.

David & Jacci DiCarlo
Diocese of Austin
David and Jacci have served the Office of Youth, Young Adult and Campus Ministry as members of the Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference committee for many years. They have graciously shared of their time and talent to help form the youth who serve on the Discipleship CREW youth leadership team for the conference, as well as in logistical capacities. They have also served in various ministries at their parish over the years. David and Jacci are also photographers who have worked with the Diocesan Fine Arts Council,  the Office of Communications and the Bishop’s office.

Benjamin & Maria Aurora Dominguez
Our Lady of San Juan Mission, Moody
Benjamin and Maria Aurora are founding members. They are hospitality ministers and extraordinary ministers of holy Communion. They volunteer at festivals, fundraisers, and the tamale making project. They have also sponsored many children preparing for their sacraments and take Communion to the homebound every week.

Johnnie & Dean Dorsey
Holy Cross Parish, Austin
Johnnie and Dean have contributed immensely to the growth of the parish. They are dependable, trustworthy and charitable parishioners who have used their time, talent and resources to serve the church. As people of deep faith, they have enriched others with their example of Christian life.

Carolyn Fritsche
Holy Rosary Mission, Frenstat
Carolyn is a life-long member who serves on the parish council and as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion. She was treasurer of the Holy Rosary Altar Society for many years and takes care of the Clerical Endowment Fund enrollments and the altar flowers for Christmas, Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, First Communion and Confirmation.

Jason & Sara Fuchs
St. Matthew Mission, Rogers
Jason and Sara exemplify the Catholic faith. Jason was instrumental in strengthening the Knights of Columbus and assists with music at Mass. Sara is dedicated to religious formation.

Rodrigo & Claudia Garcia
St. Ignatius Martyr Parish, Austin
Rodrigo and Claudia are active with the Spanish-speaking community, but have bridged the language barrier very well and are well-known to the English-speaking community. Their presence is welcoming and joyful. They do a great deal of work and service at the parish – far too much to list. They help with energy and joy. They have raised two wonderful children in the ways of the Lord and the church.

Sam & Marvy Gibbs
St. Mary Mission, Pin Oak
Sam and Marvy’s dedication to the parish has not wavered. Their love of service has been the same as from the first day they began to volunteer. They are dedicated to their marriage and to their parish community.

Mark & Barbara Goertz
Sacred Heart Parish, Rockne
Mark and Barbara have been in the parish for 35 years. They raised 10 children as good devout Catholics. They are excellent examples to the parish.

Leslie Grygar
St. Mary Parish, Temple
Leslie served in various capacities over 30 years. He was an altar server at daily Mass for over 30 years while also forming altar servers and assisting at funerals. He has also served as janitor and other humble tasks. Everyone knows him for his humility, faithfulness, playfulness and long suffering patience. He is an inspiration to us all.

Aaron Hannie
University Catholic Center, Austin
Aaron is an ideal servant-leader, always putting the needs and gifts of other people first. His dedication to the Catholic Center and his Catholic faith is an excellent example to his peers. While leading the Longhorn Catholic Council, he has also served on Longhorn Awakening Retreats. In everything he does he communicates the joy of the Gospel.

Thomas “Tom” & Lucy Hodges
St. Ann Parish, Somerville
Tom and Lucy are hard-working, participating Catholics. Tom is sacristan, on the Finance Council and maintains the properties and grounds of the church. He is an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He helps out wherever and whenever needed. Lucy is an extraordinary minister of holy Communion, a catechist and assists with altar duties as needed. She works in the flower gardens around the parish grounds and regularly attends Adoration.

David Huffner
Holy Family Parish, Copperas Cove
David has been a member for 12 years. He generously shares his leadership skills and organizational talents in various parish activities. He is chair of the Fall Fest committee and head sacristan. His dedication and his willingness to share of his time and talent are truly inspiring.

Rolando & Beatriz Jaimes
Santa Cruz Parish, Buda
Rolo and Betty have been active leaders for 21 years and have been married for 35 years with two children. They are leaders of the Christ Renews His Parish program and parish liturgical ministries and the V Encuentro. They are always available to help and guide fellow Catholics to a deeper participation in the faith life of the church.

Kathleen Janke
Sts. Cyril and Methodius Parish, Granger
Kathleen is an outstanding example of living her baptismal call in an extraordinary way. She serves through stewardship and leadership. Kathy has served as organist since she was 12 and plans the liturgy for major feast days. She serves as Environmental Chair for the St. Flora Altar Society. Through a reconstruction project, she was the liaison among the parish, diocese and all contractors. She spent countless hours attending to all the details of the job. She is also instrumental in the planning of all the major fundraisers, including preparing and serving the parish’s famous dinners.

Tom & Margaret Jasek
St. John Vianney Parish, Round Rock
Tom and Margaret volunteer countless hours. Tom helps with the facilities and the Knights of Columbus. Margaret is a catechist. The couple is a great example of what it means to live faithfully and to serve God and his church. Their faith in God shines brightly in everything they do.

Modesto & Sylvia Jimenez
St. Mary Parish, San Saba
Modesto and Sylvia are stellar examples of stewardship, ensuring the parish’s operational and spiritual needs are met on a daily basis. Modesto was baptized at the parish and now serves as Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, an usher and a religious education helper. Sylvia is a member of the St. Mary’s Ladies and a catechist. As parishioners for 45 years, they have both been on the building/maintenance committee, Festival Committee, Building Project Committee and active with ACTS.

Eugene & Betty Jones
Sts. Peter and Paul Mission, Kovar
Gene and Betty have been members for 18 years. Gene was Grand Knight of the Smithville Knights of Columbus and now serves as treasurer. He was Faithful Navigator of the La Grange Fourth Degree Assembly, the Bastrop Assembly, and currently serves as comptroller. He is on the Finance Committee and always ready to help with maintenance and cleaning. Betty was a Pastoral Council member serving as secretary, member of the Bereavement Committee and active member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, where she served as president. She was a dedicated catechist and prepares the financial reports for the annual fundraiser Bazaar. Their service, dedication and contributions to the church reflect their love of Christ and the church.

Charles F. & Catherine A. King
St. Mary Parish, Mexia
Charlie is a handy man who uses his gifts and talents to improve and maintain the church’s
buildings. Cathy always supports his devotion to the church’s need. Together, they organize the serving lines for the annual festival.

Larry & Karen Koslosky
St. Ann Parish, Rosebud
Larry does maintenance work around the church mowing grass, trimming trees and taking care of flower beds. He also does the electrical maintenance for the church. Karen helps Larry in maintaining the grounds, helps with funeral lunches and cleaning the church.

Madeline Kovar
St. John the Baptist Parish, Fayetteville
Madeline is always willing to help the parish or pastor when asked. She is president of the Altar Society, an active member of the Catholic Daughters of America, an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and a member of the choir. She also assists the administrative staff and was on the Pastoral Council.

Charles & Eileen Kubala
St. Louis Parish, Waco
Charles and Eileen are willing to jump in where ever they are needed. They never say no. Both have served the church and community for many years.

Robert & Joann LaCanne
St. Stephen Parish, Salado
Joann and Robert have distinguished themselves as examples of faithful commitment to Christian life and discipleship. Joann was the leader of the St. Stephen Women Society from 2014-2017. She currently volunteers as the parish public relations coordinator and helped organize the successful parish fall festivals. Robert has contributed his time and talent in building the church driveways and maintaining the office block.

Shane Loftin
St. Joseph Parish, Waco
Shane is on the Pastoral Council, trains and leads the altar servers, and serves as a lector and extraordinary minister of holy Communion. He cantors at one Mass and serves as the altar server at the weekday Mass. He also leads the Lenten Fish Frys.

Randie & Linda Lorenz
Church of the Visitation, Westphalia
Randie and Linda have been married for 45 years. They have five children, 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. With simplicity of life, generosity of spirit and depth of faith they demonstrate Christian discipleship and genuine stewardship through their commitment to faith, involvement in various ministries and apostolates. Randie is on the Finance Council and is the “go-to guy” when it comes to any work in the church, the community and the Knights of Columbus. Linda is coordinator of the daily and weekend Faith Formation, a member of the Liturgy Committee and the Altar Society and is readily available for any work to be done.

Generosa Lowden
Ascension Parish, Bastrop
Generosa, or “Generose,” has been a member since 1978. She is well-known and loved by everyone. She has served for many years as parish sacristan and as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion. She spends tireless hours making sure the church is decorated beautifully. She keeps track of the altar supply needs and ensures the vestments are in excellent condition. She has inspired others to come forth and volunteer their own time and skills to the church community.

Filomeno Maldonado
St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, College Station
Filomeno, or “Filo,” has served in many capacities over the last 20 years. In those years he has attended Adoration regularly and served as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion at the parish and in local hospitals. He has also been a catechist (five years), a volunteer for the Society of St. Vincent DePaul Society (two years) and was active in the Knights of Columbus for three years. Since 2007, he served as sacristan at daily Masses, at one Sunday Mass and at many of the Holy Day Masses. He goes about his work with humility and reverence.

Alvin & Virginia Malinowski
St. Stanislaus Parish, Chappell Hill
Virginia serves as the sacaristan and organizes meals for priest meetings. Alvin and Virginia serve in multiple committees and boards. They also do specialized yard work and care for the flower garden. Their donations to the church include one large stained-glass window and new entry doors to church.

Bobby & Brenda Maples
St. Patrick Parish, Hutto
Bobby and Brenda serve in multiple ministries including the Knights of Columbus, office administrative assistant, usher, Legion of Mary, fundraisers, building maintenance and repairs and more. They always bringing a smile and joy as they help anyone in need.

Alicia Martinez
Sacred Heart Parish, Austin
Through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Alicia brings light and hope to those most in need.

Cleto & Connie Martinez
St. Francis on the Brazos Parish, Waco
Cleto and Connie are dedicated and faithful members of the parish. They are a great asset to the parish community.

Myrna Martinez
St. Joseph Parish, Killeen
Myrna is involved in several ministry groups and active in the community. She plans bereavement receptions, fundraisers and cooks every Tuesday for the local senior center. She is someone the parish counts on without fail. She has a servant’s heart and her deep faith shines through in all of her actions. Whenever she is asked for help, she ends the discussion with “a la orden.”

John & Michelle Mebane
St. Peter Catholic Student Center, Waco
John and Michelle have lived in Waco their whole lives. They have been married for 34 years, have 10 children and four grandchildren. They have been involved at St. Louis and St. Joseph parishes over the years and most recently have been volunteers at the student center. They help with flowers, facilitate Ethics and Integrity and Ministry trainings, repairs, cleaning and serve as a good example of family life to the students.

Ramon & Eva Mendez
St. Mary of the Visitation Parish, Lockhart
For almost 40 years Ramon and Eva have exemplified the spirit of Christ in their good works. They have served as sponsors for Youth Ministry and the Rite of Christian Initation of Adults. They chaired the annual church bazaar for over 30 years and also serve as extraordinary ministers of holy Communion. Eva is the director of religious education and has been an office staff member for 38 years. She gives countless volunteer hours to the programs. Ramon is always at her side ready to help. He was a lector, catechist and is now a catechist substitute teacher. He is a 1982 charter member of the Knight of Columbus Council #8131. They have been married for 58 years and have four children and four grandchildren and countless godchildren.

Bruce & Belinda Minzenmayer
St. Luke Parish, Temple
Bruce and Belinda have been coordinating the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults program for several years. They are incredibly selfless, giving, caring persons who above all strive to see their RCIA candidates succeed in growing in holiness. Their leadership and love for the RCIA program and their faith in truly an inspiration to the community.

Joel & Lilly Montes
St. Margaret Mary Parish, Cedar Park
Joel and Lilly are the epitome of servant leadership. Joel just completed his four-year term on the Pastoral Council and serves as a mentor and leader for youth ministry. He is serving his second year as chair of the SpringFest. Lilly supports and assists Joel and serves as the parish secretary. She manages the church bulletin, website and social media with efficiency, effectiveness and love for the parish.

Jacinto & Betty Moreno
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Temple
Jacinto and Betty are an example of Catholic charity. They are leaders in the ministries of adult formation, religious education and stewardship. They have always responded to the call of stewardship by offering their time, talent and treasure.

María Elisa Mutis
St. Joseph Mission, Mason
Maria serves in many roles of discipleship. Her special talent with the violin is used in music and liturgical planning for Saturday Mass and solemnities. She is bilingual and serves as a Spanish lector when needed. She supports charitable events. Ecumenically, she leads the choir to 5th Sunday service among the Christian churches. She leads the prayer group of Our Lady of Fatima and the Rosary Crusade.
Tuan Nguyen
Holy Vietnamese Martyrs Parish, Austin
Tuan and his two daughters have been members since 1997. They are active in youth group ministries. Tuan serves the youth program by participating in and serving all of their programs: campfires, picnics, retreats, Mid-Autumn Festival and Spring Break camp. Seeing a need in the kitchen area, he gave all of his time to fix it so volunteers would have better conditions. He put up a small altar with the picture of the Divine Mercy, and now at 3 p.m. work stops in the kitchen to pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

Kathleen Nichols
St. Helen Parish, Georgetown
Kathleen serves as the leader of the Homebound Ministry. She is a sacristan and extraordinary minister of holy Communion. She is a light to those who are ill and in nursing homes by bringing them Communion on Sunday mornings. Kathleen also served the poor through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

Mark & Deborah Olbrich
St. Michael Mission, Burlington
Mark and Deborah do thankless jobs that need to be done: cleaning the church and rectory and yard work. They care for the altar linens and flowers at Christmas and Easter. They volunteer at funeral dinners. Their work keeps the mission up and working.

Betty Oxley
St. Jerome Parish, Waco
Betty is a founding member and very active in ministry. She is the leader of the sacristans and co-chair of the Altar Guild. She is a member of the Social Awareness ministry and leads a team of volunteers to cook breakfast for the homeless. She is also actively involved in Eucharistic Adoration, the Morning Bible Study Group, the Prayer Line and Pray the Rosary ministries.

Bob Padilla
St. Louis Parish, Austin
Bob is a valued parish acolyte, serving faithfully at daily Masses and funerals, as the priests’ dependable right hand for countless liturgies. He is an active member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and works to assist the needy. A member of Catholic Scripture Study for years, he loves to study the Word and apply it to his daily life. His wife Kathy is his biggest supporter, but Bob is loved and admired by all who witness his dedicated service to God and church.

Oscar & Mary Palomares
St. Anthony Parish, Bryan
Oscar and Mary have been parishioners for 45 years. Oscar was on the Pastoral Council and helped with the bazaar for 43 years. He is an extraordinary minster of holy Communion, an usher, member of the Men’s Club, member of the Knights of Columbus #1834, and served as Grand Knight. He is a member of the Men’s Adult Servers, coordinates Good Friday Service and Feast of St. Anthony. He also helps with the Altar Society’s Fund Raising Program. Mary is an extraordinary minister of holy Communion (now coordinator), lector and catechist. She helps with Vacation Bible School and the Vocation Chalice Ministry. She is chair of the St. Anthony Relic Committee, a member of the Altar Society and has helped with the parish bazaar and Spaghetti Dinner for a long time. She was in the choir and on the Parish Council and Finance Council.

Dave & Michele Patterson
St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish, Pflugerville
Dave and Michele are longtime parishioners. Dave serves as chair of the Finance Council. He was in the choir for 19 years, serving six years as director and choir representative on the Liturgy Committee. Dave and Michele have served twice as Fiesta Committee Chairs. They also chaired fundraisers for the church makeover, coordinated the purchase of a new keyboard and pitch in wherever needed. Their children, David and Kristin, were involved in the choir for 20 and 15 years respectively, and have supported their parents in parish endeavors.

David & Donna Perry
St. Paul Chong Hasang Parish, Harker Heights
David is president of the Parish Council and has held many leadership positions in the Knights of Columbus at all levels. As a licensed building and construction inspector, he is the parish liaison with architects and contractors for building projects. Together they are extraordinary ministers of holy Communion and played a significant role in the successful Encountering Christ/A Legacy for the Future campaigns. Donna is active in the Ladies of Charity as a past-president, and is now the parish Ethics and Integrity in Ministry administrator. Both have made Cursillo and served as team members on other weekends as well as being co-chairs for the parish festival. David and Donna celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary this year.

Dorman & Frances Pullin
St. Mary Parish, Caldwell
Dorman and Frances are faithful parishioners who serve in the choir, as lectors and as extraordinary ministers of holy Communion. They never miss Sunday Mass and frequently attend weekday Mass. Dorman is a member of the Knights of Columbus. Frances takes care of the holy water in the church.

Jesus & Rebecca Ramos
St. Mary Parish, Lampasas
Jesus and Rebecca serve on the Finance and Pastoral councils. They are active leaders in parish fundraising supporting educational and community building programs. They both reach out to others in the parish and community to support those in need and God’s blessings.

Armando & Maria Rangel
Santa Teresa Parish, Bryan
Armando and Maria are very attentive to the needs of the parish and help in every way they can. They are hard workers who also serve as extraordinary ministers of holy Communion. They are loyal servants who are respected by the community.

Diana Rezac
Emmaus Parish, Lakeway
Diana dedicated herself to fulfilling the Corporal Work of Mercy of visiting the sick. She attends to those in the parish who need communion and visitation. She gives the gift of her presence to those who are living out the last months of their lives. Diana brings comfort to many in need.

Jim Rike
St. Joseph Parish, Bryan
Jim is the president/principal for St. Joseph Catholic School, which covers grades Pre-K through 12. He also oversees the Early Learning Center (Day Care). He plays an important role in transmitting the faith, in building the community and in promoting service among staff and students at St. Joseph School. He oversees the curriculum of the school to ensure it reflects Catholic principles through integration of the faith into all areas of instruction.

Juan Rivera
San Juan Diego Mission, Stony Point
Juan Rivera is the former leader of the Nocturnal Adoration Ministry, a lector and an asset to the community. His collaboration in the mission community is greatly appreciated.

Gloria Rodriguez
St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Austin
Gloria has been a catechist for 30 years. She has been involved in every aspect of Catholic education as teacher, volunteer, chaperone and office worker. She is a role model to the other catechists.

Nieves & Maria Rodriguez
Good Shepherd Mission, Johnson City
Nieves and Maria have been active participants in prison ministry and ACTS retreats for several years. They have held Bible study classes for parishioners and anyone who wishes to attend. They also coordinate and train altar servers and teach Baptism classes for parents and godparents.

John & Alma Roessler
St. Martin of Tours Parish, Tours
John and Alma Roessler were married March 24, 1961. They settled in the Tours area and have been members since then. They have six children and three are still members of the parish. John served on the Pastoral Council and was instrumental in remodeling the old St. Martin School, which serves as the current religious education center. Alma has served as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and rosary leader until her health no longer permitted her to do so.

Dee Scheetz
St. Albert the Great Parish, Austin
Dee is a founding member of the parish. She served on the committee for the selection of the location and building of the church. She served as the president of the first Pastoral Council. As a certified youth minister, she established the first high school youth group. She served in various ministries through the years, including the St. Anne’s Circle, Parish and State Regent for the Catholic Daughters of America, leader of the St. Albert’s Great Club, and past president of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women. She is a lady of the Grand Cross in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.

RoseMarie Schoppe
St. Joseph Parish, Cyclone
RoseMarie is dedicated to the religious education program and to sharing the faith with the younger generation and helping them to develop an authentic relationship with Christ. She continuously offers her time and talent for the good of the parish. She volunteers her time in the Altar Society and served as co-chair of the capital campaign. She truly believes in the mission of the church to proclaim the Gospel.

Mary Frances Shipp
St. Monica Parish, Cameron
Mary Frances is a life-long member and serves as the chair of the annual parish picnic. She was on the Cemetery Board and now coordinates all plot sales. She is Membership Chair and Organization Coordinator of the Ladies Society and co-chair of the Bereavement Committee. She helps weekly with parish financial accounting. She has been a steadfast example of parish support with her enthusiasm, faith, generosity of funds, spirit and humility.

Deacon William “Dave” & Elaine Shoemake
Christ the King Parish, Belton
Deacon “Dave” died Jan. 2, 2019. He was ordained in San Antonio in 1979. He was widely admired and respected by the parishioners and all denominations of the Belton community. He had a passion for serving the youth, the poor and the elderly. He was so loved by his wife Elaine and family who supported him in the performance of his diaconate responsibilities.

Walter & Lupe Smith
Our Mother of Sorrows Parish, Burnet
Walter and Lupe are both retired teachers who now serve as coordinators of the religious education program. They also coordinate Adoration. When they serve, they do so with love and dedication.

Ricky & Margaret Stecher
St. Joseph Mission, Elk
Ricky and Margaret work closely with the youth ministry program. Ricky is a member of the building committee and a lector. Margaret is the sacristan, an extraordinary minister of holy Communion, money counter and member of the CCE Committee. She previously served on the Pastoral Council.

John & Lois Stritzinger
St. Paul Parish, Austin
Since August 1989, when the parish began, John and Lois have been involved with the music ministry. John worked with the Scout troop for several years, and was on the parish staff for about seven years. He is a member of the Finance Council.

Ken & Debbie Taylor
Sacred Heart Parish, La Grange
Ken and Debbie minister at the liturgy and have been invaluable for a recent building project. Spreading out from the parish, they are strong leaders in the ACTS retreat ministry with hearts dedicated to bringing people to know the joy of the Gospel and the healing that comes from God.

Roy & Erin Thibodeaux
St. Mary, Immaculate Conception Parish, Brenham
Roy and Erin are especially active in youth ministry. Roy serves as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and is a member of the Pastoral Council. Erin has been a catechist for over 11 years. She also sings in the choir and is a lector. Together they participated in Vacation Bible School, May Crowning, A Night in Bethlehem and serve on the Junior High and High School Youth Ministries Parent Board. Erin is also an active youth soccer coach, Girl Scout Troop leader, helps with the Brenham Summer Swim Team and serves on several Brenham School District Committees.

Judy Tixier-Fyall
St. Martin de Porres, Dripping Springs
Judy is the business manager at St. Martin de Porres and long-term parishioner. She has served as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and sacristan. Judy is a certified spiritual director. She is a member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, making home visits and serving as conference president. She also served on the parish Finance Council and was instrumental in helping the parish through a challenging fiscal phase. She played an integral role in the design and construction oversight of the new St. Dymphna Center building.

Eliseo & Juanita Tovar
St. Mary Cathedral, Austin
Eliseo and Juanita have volunteered at the parish for about 25 years. During their tenure, they served in many different ministries and are always willing to assist, lead and encourage other parishioners to become involved.

Dora Treviño, O.P.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Austin
Dora is a faithful lector/commentator. She is involved with the annual Jamaica and Golf Tournament and was a valued member of the V Encuentro in 2018. She is also involved in Social Ministries and the religious education program. She is a third order Dominican and missionary to asylum seekers in the El Paso-Juarez region. If she can help, she just jumps right in and gets involved. Dora has a heart of gold and loves her parish.

Donald & Pamela Tumminia
St. Peter Mission, Goldthwaite
Don and Pam have been married over 50 years. Don serves as an usher and takes care of the building maintenance when needed. Pam plays the piano and sings in the choir. She has been a Confirmation catechist, organizer for Ladies May Fellowship, and teacher and organizer of the parish Bible Study. She continues to serve as lector and extraordinary minister of holy Communion, taking the sacrament to the homebound and nursing homes.

Antonio & Ana Vallejo
St. Michael Parish, Uhland
Antonio and Ana serve on the Fiesta Committee. Ana is a lector and Antonio assists at Mass. They have recruited others to be lectors, ushers and choir members for a Spanish Mass.

Otilio Vallejo
San Francisco Javier Parish, Austin
Otilio and his family have served the parish over 15 years. He helps with maintenance around the parish and is the coordinator of ushers. His time talent and love for his parish is greatly appreciated by the community.

Michael & Sylvia Valls
St. Mary, Our Lady of the Lake Parish, Lago Vista
Mike is the Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus and a member of the Pastoral Council. Sylvia is the vice president of the Women’s Guild, a catechist and is involved in the prayer shawl ministry. Mike and Sylvia never cease to say “yes” when asked to help. They model a beautiful Christian marriage and what it is meant to be true servants of Christ.

Robert & Debra Vansa
Sts. Cyril and Methodius Mission, Marak
Debbie helps with the Bereavement Committee and the Altar Society. Robert serves the parish in so many ways behind the scenes fixing anything that needs repair. As a couple, they co-chaired the Encountering Christ Campaign and were influential in making it a success and reaching the parish’s goal. Their energetic and great attitude and tremendous generosity are reflective of their faith and spiritual life.

Antonio & Leticia Vargas
Dolores Parish, Austin
Antonio and Leticia serve as catechists, extraordinary ministers of holy Communion and lectors. Leticia is also a money counter and member of the Finance Council. They both help in parish activities and receive requests to support the spiritual life of many parishioners. Always eager to serve and generous, they are an example of married and ministerial life.

Guadalupe & Albina Villalobos
St. Joseph Parish, Manor
Guadalupe is present every weekend at Mass to open the door and welcome everyone with a smile. He helps the clergy with anything that is needed for Mass. He works around the parish helping with the plumbing, electricity or the grounds. Together they are always on the lookout for what needs to be done in the sacristy, sanctuary or anywhere in the church. They donate their time and money by organizing fundraisers for the parish. They are an example for all of us and are amazing people willing to share their experiences and wisdom with others.

Betsy Watson
St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Kingsland
Betsy’s exemplary dedication to different apostolates has led more laity joining different ministries. She attends daily Mass and is the director of liturgy and coordinator of sacristans. She is the chair of the Finance Council and a member of the Pastoral Council. She organizes and plans the schedule for other volunteers: lectors, ushers, altar servers, sacristans, etc. Her life is a living witness to the Gospel.

David & Janet Widmer
Holy Cross Mission, Bertram
David and Janet are extremely dedicated and commited to holding the church together. They serve in different ministries with love and dedication, preaching the Gospel by example.

Beatrice Wimberley
Holy Trinity Parish, Llano
Beatrice serves as parish secretary. She assists the pastor with planning parish activities, responds to requests for charitable assistance, and answers many questions on the phone and by email. In addition, she plays the organ at Mass and is part of the Ladies Altar Society, Bereavement Committee and Diocesan Council of Catholic Women. She also volunteers at the local thrift store with a ready smile for customers.

James & Ruth Wunderlich
St. Mary Mission, Ellinger
James and Ruth have been living their Catholic faith together for 46 years. James is on the Pastoral Council and served as chair for many years. He is an active Knight of Columbus, hospitality minister, assists weekly with parish administration and has been the project manager on many building/repair projects. Ruth is the Altar Society treasurer, a member of the Catholic Daughters of America and is a regular volunteer with parish administration. They serve with a gentle and kind attitude and always with a smile.