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Celebrating Lay Ecclesial Ministry

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Congratulations to Kathy Wadowick on the occasion of her official certification as a Lay Ecclesial Minister for the Diocese of Cleveland.  Kathy and her “classmates” completed the formation program for certification and was blessed by Bishop Edward Malesic Saturday morning at the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist. 

This is certainly a proud moment for Kathy, her husband Joe, and the Wadowick family but it is also a joyful accomplishment her parish family shares with her. 

After decades of serving as our volunteer Director of Parish School of Religion (PSR), Kathy became involved in ministry to fellow parishioners as they plan for a loved one’s funeral here at Saint Patrick.  She is also instrumental in the ministry to those members who suffer from grief after losing a spouse or family member.  In addition to these important moments in our parishioners’ lives, Kathy works with young couples who are preparing for Marriage and those who are presenting their child for Baptism. 

We thank Kathy for her many years of dedication to our beloved St. Pat’s and we are grateful for her willingness to pursue this formal training as a certified minister.  Although reluctant to receive any public attention, she would be the first to insist that her motivation to pursue this certification stems from a desire to faithfully serve others in these areas of ministry. 

This past Tuesday the Church commemorated the sixtieth anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council (also the memorial of Saint Pope John XXIII who convened Vatican II).  Kathy’s certification, like that of so many laity these past several decades, is a good example of the Church relying on the dedication of committed women and men to share their love and talent as they collaborate with the Clergy and Religious in providing sound pastoral care for all.  

In the name of our entire parish, I offer deep gratitude for her witness and promise to pray for her ongoing growth and success.  May all of us continue to recognize our roles in the vineyard of the Lord!

In Christ the Master of the Vineyard,

Fr. Gurnick