Profile
Social worker finds riches in serving others ‘from womb to tomb’
In her 45 years with archdiocesan Catholic Social Services, Kathy Nelson has worked with clients of all ages, and the rewards have "come back a hundredfold."
Local author’s book helps kids hold on to belief in Santa Claus
Inspired by her daughter's wish not to spoil the Christmas tradition for her little brother, Patricia Gallagher wove a new story and now is publishing the "touch and feel" book for all families.
Math teacher’s award adds up to lesson plan for real success
Honored by the University of Chicago as an outstanding educator, I.H.M. Sister Alice Hess of Archbishop Ryan High School says her true expertise is teaching people, not numbers.
New director of Black Catholics Office sees church welcome as essential
James Andrews, Philadelphia native and parishioner, describes his hopes for bringing together people of all cultures by utilizing the gifts of welcome and vibrancy of the Black Catholic community.
Villa St. Joseph leader brings life of service to retired priests
Claudia Populaire, a native of Haiti, has worked in social service for years supporting young people and seniors, and volunteering in the church. She begins her new role as administrator of the priests' retirement home in Darby.
Woman with disabilities takes her place at the boardroom table
Catherine McCrorey, a longtime resident of the Communities of Don Guanella and Divine Providence, brings decades of work experience to her role as a client advocate.
Permanent deacon blends spreadsheets, sacraments to serve those in need
Ordained in June by Archbishop Nelson Perez, Franz Fruehwald, chief financial officer of archdiocesan Catholic Social Services, weaves vocation, career and faith into one mission of hope.
With 8 kids, new deacon knows all about life balance
Mark Nowakowski, who will be ordained June 13, juggled his work, many parish activities and raising a large family as he prepared to serve the church as a deacon.
His journey to priesthood stretches continents, decades into eternity
Across more than 2,000 miles from his native Venezuela to Philadelphia, with stops along the way, now at age 49 the sacred vocation of Deacon Wilmer Chirino Gonzalez will soon be realized.
Early thought of priesthood, put aside, comes full circle at ordination
The seed of a vocation took root early in the mind of Deacon August Taglianetti, who will be ordained a priest June 20, and emerged in college while studying to be a teacher.