ST. VINCENT de PAUL Meet the Hoelschers: Making Parish
F
Bill and Jennifer Hoelscher with their children, Brett, Molly and Caroline
or parishioners Bill and Jennifer Hoelscher and their children, parish involvement is truly a family affair! Both the Hoelschers were raised in the Catholic Church by parents who modeled an active faith life. Jennifer — whose maiden name is Brett — was raised and received all of her sacraments right here at St. Vincent de Paul. Her parents and two of her brothers are also still members of our parish. Bill grew up in San Antonio, where his father served the archdiocese as a deacon. While it was never a question for the couple that they would raise their own children in the Church, they have found here at St. Vincent de Paul more than a place of worship — they have discovered a true extension of family. “There is such a strong community here, and whether it’s going to Mass or a parish activity or taking your kids
4
to Religious Ed, there is a strong community of people you know and recognize,” Jennifer says. The Hoelschers have nurtured a lot of connections and friendships in the parish by participating in various organizations and ministries. Bill joined the Men’s Club over 15 years ago and has thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie of the group, along with its fundraising and charitable works. Bill is also an acolyte. Jennifer helps with the Children’s Liturgy of the Word, and she and Bill have taught Religious Education classes for many years. Helping with faith formation has allowed them to get to know other parents and share the faith with some of our youngest parishioners. Following their parents’ examples of active discipleship, all three of the Hoelscher kids — Brett, 15;
