Sue Edwards Reflects on Her Role Within the Women’s Guild
By Colleen Leavy – Bulletin Editor
Guided by faith, prayer, knowledge and concern, The Women’s Guild helps build St. John XXIII’s community through friendship, spiritual reflection, and the support of those in need.
The Women’s Guild’s success is due to the hard work of the many women who give so much of themselves.
The following questions and answers reflect the newly elected president in her faith, commitment and dedication to her role within The Women’s Guild.
CL: What made you decide to serve?
SE: I grew up in a household where we were taught that the best way to show God’s love was to serve others. Ours was the house that friends and family came for help and comfort. For Thanksgiving and Christmas we included sailors from Great Lakes Naval Base and seniors from the state run nursing home. It was only natural then, that I became involved in the church from an early age. In the churches we have attended I’ve always looked for ways that I was being called to serve. When we moved to Fort Myers and I first attended St. John XXIII, I was happy to see so many opportunities to serve, especially, in the social justice area. I am now involved as a lector in The Women’s Guild, Caring for Creation, and helping with some of the social justice activities such as the backpack drive and the angel tree.
CL: How long have you been president?
SE: As I mentioned, when I come to a new church I look for opportunities to serve. When we were looking for a president, I offered to serve. I have been the president of 2 other women’s clubs so I had some experience. My only worry was that I was new to St. John XXIII and did not have the history of what has been done. Luckily I have a great board who have that history: Barbara Artale VP, Carolyn Hartmann secretary, and Joann Bernstein, treasurer. We took office in July and will serve for 3 years.
CL: How do you support Fr. Bob with your mission?
SE: The mission of the Women’s Guild is in line with that of the church’s mission. We desire that all feel welcome and that we show God’s love by the charities we support and the way we interact with others. We have been supportive of Fr.. Bob especially in the capital campaign and by supporting the charities that are close to his heart. We have tried to respond to any requests he has for our group.
CL: What would you tell someone who is interested in volunteering?
SE: There are many opportunities in our parish and within the Women’s Guild for women to choose: helping with collections like sneakers and backpacks, funeral lunches, bake sales for Lifeline and Verity, food for St. Martin de Porres. No matter what your interest or your talents there is a place for you and your skills. By using your God given talents, not only will you get a sense of satisfaction but God will be pleased you are using what He gave you. Plus you can serve others and get the bonus of meeting other great women and also having a good time.
CL: What upcoming events do you have planned?
SE: This Sunday night, October 29th, we have The Pippin Musical at The Broadway Palm. We are excited about The Fashion Show on February 24th. We also hope to include some luncheons after the first of the year.
CL: What do you hope to accomplish in the next 3 years?
SE: The one thing that I would like is for The Women’s Guild to help accomplish making our large parish more welcoming by providing women with the opportunity to meet one another and work together to accomplish God’s work here at St. John XXIII and the surrounding community.
