Parish Council

Introducing the New HGA Parish Council

The past year has been defined in many ways by the pandemic, but it has also been an example of perseverance and adapting as a community. Through the rebirth and growth of our parish, we have been coming together in new ways to face this once in a lifetime experience. A new parish council was formed with representation from all ages and both worship sites, and we began meeting virtually in October, 2020.

 

We wanted to introduce ourselves, but a large, in-person meeting is unfortunately not possible at this time. It can be difficult to get to know each other when we are not able to gather, but we are working on more ways to reach members of the parish, including more ways for us to be accessible for questions or comments. However, for the time being, the photos and bios below can be used to get to know us a little bit. If you do see us in church or in the community, please feel free to say hello! All of us are excited to serve the parish community!

                 

 

 

 

       
 

 

  

Hello, my name is Carol Benda, and I am very pleased to be a member of the HGA.  I am a retired educator - in the classroom as well as an administrator.  I have been a member of the community for 30 years and look forward to working with you to make our Parish strong.
 

 

  

Hello, my name is Kevin Copp. I am a graduate of St. Louise School. I am a Catholic school teacher and I look forward to serving Holy Guardian Angels Parish and being a part of a wonderful community.
 

 

  

Hello, my name is Maria Espinosa. After a couple of years away, I am glad to be back and looking forward to serving the HGA parish. With your help let’s make HGA a united, welcoming beacon in our community.
 

 

  

Hello, my name is Margaret (Meg) Miller. I have been a part of this parish since I was a toddler, and I graduated from St. Louise School. At HGA, I have been active in music ministry, youth ministry, and theatre. I look forward to aiding the parish community in any way I can.
 

 

  

Hello, my name is Leanne Pavel. I am happy to serve on the HGA Parish Council.  I have worked in offices, libraries, and other settings.  In my spare time, I like to sing, cook, craft, speak, and spend time with family and friends.
 

 

  

Hello, my name is Jose Solis, and it is a pleasure to be a part of the Holy Guardian Angels Parish Council! I have been a parishioner at St. Barbara since 2001. Since then, I’ve served as a greeter/usher at the Spanish-speaking Mass and was a volunteer crossing guard for Religious Education there. Most recently, due to the pandemic, I’ve been a Set-Up Captain for the Spanish Mass, in which I greet and ensure that everyone follows the guidelines. I also do this at the Rosary in Spanish at St. Barbara on Fridays. In my spare time, I enjoy reading the Bible. Also, I love apologetics.
 

 

  

Hello! My name is Emily Szymczak. I am a 6th grade teacher in Berwyn, working with Emerging Bilingual students. I live in La Grange Park with my husband and have been a part of the St. Louise community for 25 years. I am excited to watch Holy Guardian Angels Parish grow!
     

Hello, my name is James Wilder, and I am excited to be on the HGA Parish Council! I have been a music teacher for two years, and I have been a part of the HGA community for all of my life. I look forward to working with you to build a welcoming community and anticipate serving Holy Guardian Angels Parish.