Meet Parishioners Carroll and Gwen Kirwin: Using Time and Talents to Serve for the Glory of God

Carroll and Gwen Kirwin have found that, in retirement, they have more time on their hands. So, they’ve decided to use that time to serve St. James Parish.

“There are things that need to get done, and we have the time to do them,” Carroll says.

Although they both serve in many capacities, they each have their favorites. Gwen loves cooking and baking, so making food for funeral luncheons is a perfect fit. She and Carroll also help set up for the meals.

“It’s really rewarding to help with funeral meals,” Gwen says. “Most of the time, they aren’t expecting it. When they come into the Fellowship Hall to a delicious, well-organized meal, they are very pleased and blessed.”

Carroll loves taking the time to care for the outdoor spaces at St. James. He cuts the bushes around the church building and rectory and pulls weeds in the flower gardens. He also plants flowers, cleans up leaves, and shovels the sidewalks along with others. One of his favorite jobs, which he finds most important, is walking the property to clean up trash and other items.

“I want God’s place to look good and clean,” he says.

Gwen doesn’t help outside as often, but when she does, she enjoys it.

“When I dig in the dirt, it feels good” she says. “It’s nice to be able to help wherever we can.”

There are several ministries in which the couple is involved together — one being cleaning the vessels used for Mass. This is an important job that they do each week. They also periodically help with setting up senior luncheons at St. James.

“When we are washing vessels, we can look through the church and see if anything needs to be done,” Gwen says. “Being in the church together when no one is there, it’s a wonderful feeling.”

Carroll also enjoys writing and helped compose the 50year history of St. James. Along with Bob Zoeller, Carroll co-wrote the 100-year history of St. John’s as well. He has also written four historical novels. The couple also helps with the collection when needed.

“We don’t do as much as so many others,” Gwen says. “We appreciate all that people do. We don’t do it for man’s glory. We do it for God’s glory.”

Gwen was raised in the Quaker faith tradition. Carroll’s strong faith is what drew Gwen to the Catholic faith.

“Carroll is so dedicated,” she says. “Whatever he does, he does thanking God for everything he has. He is such a spiritual man. I’m so blessed.”

Carroll and Gwen feel blessed with their two daughters, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. In their free time, they enjoy exercising and socializing with neighbors. Gwen also loves to read. They feel very blessed by the strong community they have found at St. James.

“We are all intertwined,” Gwen says. “We love each other and help each other.”

Carroll and Gwen Kirwin