Veronica, pictured with her husband Jimmy and their daughter Felicity. Veronica has been a parishioner for almost 10 years, and our part-time Coordinator of Evangelization since 2023.
If you’ve been away for the summer, you may be surprised by the changes our beautiful church is undergoing. The outside construction is a visible sign of the progress being made that will lead to a more welcoming entryway for both new and longtime parishioners. Another change during the summer months was the transition in our Stewardship office. We welcomed our new full-time Coordinator of Evangelization, Kate Braunstein, who was warmly onboarded by her predecessor, Veronica Spilker.
Recently, we caught up with Veronica to reflect on her years of ministry, what she’ll miss most, and what excites her about the season ahead.
Veronica’s favorite memories aren’t grand events but the everyday moments: “Setting up for events with stewards who became close friends, catching up with students around a bonfire at Teen Mass, or laughing with middle schoolers at Blaze. All those little moments shaped relationships that I will always treasure.”
Relationships have also been the source of her spiritual growth. “Working alongside parishioners and staff reminded me that leaning on the Lord together creates a much fuller, more beautiful experience.”
Among her proudest contributions is the Teen Mass. With Fr. Jon’s support, Veronica launched this monthly Mass geared toward high school students. “It’s been a blessing to see teens connect and flourish in their faith. I look forward to watching it continue to grow.”
Another ministry that deeply impacted her is Walking With Purpose. “When I first joined, I didn’t know anyone at the parish. The women I met became mentors, prayer partners, and friends. Years later, I’ve served alongside many of them, and it’s been a beautiful picture of community.”
As she enters this next chapter, Veronica and her husband, Jimmy, eagerly await the arrival of their second child this December. She recalls the long fertility journey that came before the birth of their daughter, Felicity, and now expresses deep gratitude for God’s timing. Veronica is excited for the gift of being home during these early years with her little ones.
Veronica reminds us that “Our faith is not meant to be lived alone, we need each other for the journey.” She hopes you’ll say hello to your fellow pew-mates, plan to attend a parish event together, or take community on the road and serve together at the SSJNC!