The Doucette Family: Sharing Talents for the Glory of God

When Kevin Doucette was growing up, his mother, Dorothy, set an inspiring example for him by using her talents for the glory of God.

“My mother-in-law, Dorothy, was a lifelong member of Holy Family Parish, and she was very involved, especially by helping with the flowers,” Carol Doucette says. “That was her gift to the church!”

Given that the treasure chest of faith can be passed down from generation to generation, one could say that the “riches” of Dorothy’s faith have been given to Kevin, who in turn has shared them with Carol, along with their four children and 11 grandchildren.

Kevin and Carol joined Holy Family in 1976, and have been faithful parishioners ever since. Throughout the years, Kevin and Carol have savored a profound love for the Catholic faith, as well as for our parish family, and it shows.

“Our four children all received First Communion and were confirmed at our parish, and three of them were married here as well,” Carol says. “We have a lot of history with Holy Family Parish, and have made many great memories. I cherish the priests we have had in our tri-parish community over the years. We have been so blessed to have such faith-filled men who live out the Gospel message. I also appreciate the many good parishioners that have inspired me to grow spiritually.”

Soon after she and Kevin were married, Carol started teaching Religious Education, and worked as the Religious Education Coordinator for about five years, as well.

As their children were growing up, Kevin and Carol made it a priority to teach them how to care about others and show them God’s love. Along with their children, they visited nursing homes, prepared meals for families in need through Oasis Share a Meal ministry, and helped out with Vacation Bible School.

“Our children went to Vacation Bible School and Kevin loved helping out at it, as well, by giving hay rides,” Carol says. “Then, as our children grew up, they began volunteering for VBS, too. They also served at Mass. Our goal as parents was to teach the children to help out, so that as they grew older they would be involved and feel the need to give of themselves and share their gifts and talents.”

Furthermore, Kevin and Carol have truly enjoyed being involved in various faith-sharing groups.

“I have really grown in my faith through the various formation opportunities the parish has offered,” Carol says. “I have learned to pray and read the Bible more, as well as deepen my relationship with Jesus. The other people at our parish have inspired me to nurture my faith. I really appreciate the support we have for one another and how well we work together as a parish, as well as in a tri-parish community. We have developed a lot of strong relationships at our parish.”

Presently, Carol serves as a sacristan and a money counter. Kevin takes care of the sound system at Holy Family Parish. He also plays music for all three of the triparishes, along with their daughter, Trish. Their granddaughter, Valerie, sometimes plays music with Kevin for church, and their other grandchildren volunteer for various activities as well. Both Carol and Trish help with the Alpha Program, which is a video series that includes faith formation and fellowship.

The Doucette family at Thanksgiving