Meet Parishioner Karen Hartke: Embracing The Faith In A Warm And Welcoming Community

Karen Hartke is happy to call St. Andrew’s her home parish. Having joined the faith community in 2008, Karen has continued on her faith journey accompanied and supported by many welcoming parishioners.

“I have had some great discussions with other members of the parish, and seeing and hearing how others think and question things has challenged me to think deeper,” Karen says. “Working together with others has brought different people into my life and made me a better person.”

Karen had been teaching for years and attending church with her students before she decided to make a change.

“I wanted some anonymity and separation between my personal and professional life,” she says. “I wanted to be seen as a mom, wife, and parishioner at my church, not just a teacher.”

While raising her own small children, Karen had been involved in parishes with a children’s liturgy. After joining St. Andrew’s, she spoke with Fr. Jim Devorak and decided to start such a ministry for our children here.

“They thought it would be a good idea to try, so we had a children’s liturgy at St. Andrew’s for about three years,” Karen says.

Another way Karen has been involved in parish life is through preparing and serving meals for different people and at different gatherings. She has made rolls for breakfast in the morning to share with parishioners after Mass. She has also prepared and served meals for Totus Tuus missionaries.

“Making and serving food has brought different people into my life and made me a better person,” she says. “I really enjoy sharing in food and fellowship.”

Karen would encourage parishioners who want to be more Karen Hartke is happy to call involved in parish life to look at the St. Andrew’s her home parish. bulletin and see what opportunities exist. Parishioners might also think about what doesn’t exist yet, and if you’re familiar with a ministry from another parish, have a conversation with others about starting that ministry here.

“There are always ways to get involved,” Karen says.“How I give back is ever-changing depend upon what the parish’s needs are and my own talents. Being involved and sharing your talents gives you a sense of belonging.”

Karen would like to thank the people of Holy Family Area Catholic Community for being so warm and welcoming.

“I really like how welcoming the faith community is,” she says. “I have done many of the Lenten Bible studies and have often attended other parishes in the Holy Family Area for the weekly discussions.Each and every time I was welcomed with open arms by the members.”

Karen Hartke is happy to call St. Andrew’s her home parish.