Meet Parishioners Randy and Margaret Fleischhacker: Blessed to Serve and Grow in Faith as a Family

For some parents, being involved in the celebration of the Mass while raising a family of four children, ages second grade and younger, might seem an overwhelming prospect. But Randy and Margaret Fleischhacker have found a way to be involved in the Mass while nurturing their children’s faith. Randy serves as the lead usher at Our Lady of Lourdes, and Margaret is a lector.

“I don’t get nervous speaking in front of people, so I thought I’d give lectoring a try,” Margaret says.

While Randy has spent most of his life as a member at Our Lady of Lourdes, Margaret grew up in Madison, Wis. The couple and their children — Grace, Matthew, Caleb, and Josiah — have all found a home at Our Lady of Lourdes.

“It’s so welcoming,” Randy says. “It’s beautiful, with the classical church look and stained glass and beautiful statues.”

“We always feel very welcome when we attend Mass,” Margaret says. “Everyone is especially welcoming to children.”

The family also has found a home in the Catholic faith. Randy and Margaret both feel blessed to raise their children in a community with a fantastic Catholic school, and Grace and Matthew both attend St. Mary’s.

Margaret drives a belly dump for Knife River, and Randy is a cafeteria helper at Little Falls and surrounding schools. He also works part-time at Walmart. Randy knows a lot of folks in the Little Falls area — and many people know him for always having a smile on his face.

“I have a bit of a hard time ushering because I end up talking to people for a while when they come in,” Randy says. “A lot of family, friends, and coworkers go to Lourdes.”

When Randy was in junior high school, he learned how to meditate and allow the Holy Spirit to come in. He’s had many experiences where he has felt God talking directly to him.

“I learned how to rebuke evil and allow the Holy Spirit to come in,” Randy says.

Randy has also been a committed adorer for about five years and makes weekly adoration time in the early morning hours. He enjoys having quiet time to allow the Lord to speak to him.

“My mom got me started on adoration — I love it,” Randy says. “That’s my alone time with no phone and nothing to bother me.”

The Fleischhacker family also enjoys geocaching, camping, and canoeing — they love any activity that allows them to be outside.

“We love enjoying God’s creation, spending time outside,” Randy says.

Randy and Margaret Fleischhacker with their children and Fr. Ben Kociemba.