Holy Ghost & St. Bernadette crown 2026 "Women of the Year" Honorees!
We are proud to recognize two extraordinary women whose lives are shining examples of faith, service, and dedication to our parish family!
🌟 Holy Ghost Woman of the Year: Mary Baber
Mary Baber is exceptionally generous with her time and remains a constant,
supportive presence at our parish events. She consistently steps in to fill any role
needed—transitioning seamlessly from washing dishes to bussing tables—with a
tireless work ethic and remarkable gentleness.
Since her retirement from teaching, she has graciously expanded her
involvement by leading a core group for church cleaning and facilitating a "Live
Lent Together" group. Her dedication is unmatched, yet she carries out every
task with a positive, joyful attitude that lifts everyone around her.
Beyond her manual labor, she is a gifted organizer and leader. She assists with
the raffle baskets for our events and is highly effective at recruiting volunteers;
people are naturally drawn to follow her lead because she never asks more of
others than she is willing to do herself.
Furthermore, along with her husband, they lead by example, encouraging their
children to embrace the values of volunteering and selfless service.
Her commitment is deeply rooted in her faith, as she can be found in the front
pew praying before every mass. Even through the challenges of a busy schedule,
her unique ability to inspire others makes her dedication to the community seem
entirely natural.
We believe there is no one more deserving of this honor than Mary Baber.
🙏 Congratulations, Mary Baber – Holy Ghost's 2026 Woman of the Year!
🌟 St. Bernadette's Woman of the Year: Jackie Kmiecik
Jackie Kmiecik
has been a long-time member of St. Bernadette parish.
She has been a member of many organizations; she often goes unnoticed, as she is never looking
for any recognition. She was a parent volunteer at the school when her children attended and
have been a long-standing member of the Altar Society.
She was one of the original members of the Adult Faith Formation Committee which
spearheaded initial efforts for Evangelization and Catechesis. She was a prayer team leader and
small group facilitator for Christ Life sessions. She also assisted in all the Faith Formation
opportunities that were offered.
Recently she entered the Archdiocese Mentorship Program and became the first Certified Mentor
in our parishes. She has also been involved in ALPHA, as a table facilitator, prayer team member
and kitchen crew. She accepted an invitation to be a member of the parish Senior Leadership
Team, where she has not only led the joint parish Hospitality Committee but continually
advocates for integrating prayer in all that is undertaken. This demonstrates her commitment to
keeping prayer at the center of all that we do.
As a dedicated wife and mother, with her husband Rich, they have raised a family filled with the
Spirit of the Lord, which has now extended to their grandchildren.
Jackie Kmiecik is truly a model of what it means to be a missionary disciple of Christ.
🙏 We are proud to honor Jackie Kmiecik as St. Bernadette’s 2026 Woman of the Year!
