Kathy Lester, a devout member of St. John Parish in Clarion, shines for her commitment to spirituality, leadership, and selfless service, earning the “Our Lady of Good Counsel Award” of 2023. This award is the highest recognition given to a woman in the Archdiocese of Dubuque.
According to the nomination form for “Our Lady of Good Counsel Award” filled out by her long-time friend of 40 years, Chris Leichsenring, the core of Kathy's life is a deep and abiding spirituality. A daily routine of prayer and the rosary is not just a ritual for her; it's her way of life.
Kathy organizes the parish prayer chain, offering a sense of unity within the parish. She never misses weekday Mass or Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Kathy has been involved in various spiritual enrichment events including "Beauty Alive" and “Christ Renews His Parish”. Kathy has a strong devotion for spiritual enrichment. Her mailbox, full of religious magazines, is an obvious example of her devotion. According to Chris, Kathy’s mail carrier has jokingly shared that she might get more religious text than the priest!
Kathy's leadership roles within her parish and community are as different as they are impactful. Serving in many ways, she has played an important role in shaping the parish's organizational landscape. Kathy offers her expertise through organization for funerals, receptions, and other parish events.
Beyond the church community, Kathy is an active member of the Senior Citizens group and the VFW/American Legion Women’s Auxiliary. She shows a commitment to the entire community. Her involvement in the Cluster Liturgy Committee and the Cluster Faith Formation Commission serves as an obvious example of her dedication to the spiritual growth of the entire faith community, not just her own.
Kathy's most significant contribution lies in her unseen service to the parish family. For decades, she has served as the sacristan setting up the church and preparing for every type of Mass and liturgical celebration. Underlining her commitment to enhancing the worship experience, Kathy has served in roles such as cantor, Eucharistic minister and lector.
Just when I thought Kathy’s ‘religious resume’ couldn’t extend further, I learned that Kathy is also a member of the local Mother Teresa group. She takes those who are unwell to doctor appointments and other health treatments. Kathy Lester seems to take a hand in every part of her church, from the bigger events to small things, like changing liturgical banners.
When nominating Kathy for the Our Lady of Good Counsel Award, Chris Leichsenring described her as the "dedicated single person" of the archdiocesan prayer for vocation. Kathy Lester has made her parish into her family. Kathy shares her time and talent over and over. And she does this without seeking accolades.
Chris further shared that Kathy is the silent force that keeps the parish functioning smoothly, and her impact is immeasurable.
Kathy Lester serves as a living embodiment of faith in action. Her selfless service, leadership, and spirituality have left a lasting mark on the St. John Parish, the Holy Family Cluster, and the Clarion community.
As the Our Lady of Good Counsel Award suggests, Kathy Lester is a beacon of inspiration and a true blessing to all who have the privilege of knowing her.
Kathy Lester, who can be seen above, of St. John Parish was honored with the prestigious 'Our Lady of Good Counsel Award’ for her dedication to faith. (Photo: Chris Leichsenring)
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