Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion Tina Kemps, pictured with husband Anton at the 2024 Celebration of Marriage.
Growing up in a devout Catholic family, I was fortunate to have parents deeply rooted in the schools and charities throughout the parish and local communities. Their choices exposed me to an excellent education and a commitment to helping others. When helping others and serving the community, it is essential to love what you do; the bonus of this love is that it sets an example for your children and, hopefully, grandchildren.
I have served at the Cathedral Kitchen for many years and feel blessed to see my children and grandchildren serve. After seeing a need in that community, I began a blanket drive, which is now in its twelfth year, thanks to the support and generosity of all involved.
This year, our blanket collection will benefit the SSJNC. The Center offers multiple service opportunities, which I have given time to, but the day I served at the food pantry moved me significantly. After the bountiful delivery from the SJ Food Bank arrived, serving alongside people from different parishes was uplifting. In all my years of volunteering, I have never witnessed the people from the neighborhood, along with their children, helping to sort and bag the food. This display of gratitude was overwhelming and a site I will never forget.
The mighty Sisters of Saint Joseph are inspirational as they carry on their vocations and devotion in the name of St. Joseph. They lovingly bring together a community of families, blessing them daily with educational programs that promote literacy and help them navigate a new world. Don’t miss Sr. Bonnie McMenamin, SSJ, on Sunday, September 8, at 9AM Mass for the official launch of our local mission, or schedule a tour and find a service you love.
Tina Kemps