The following questions were asked of Generations of Faith volunteer, Mary Jane McCartney, a Catholic Foundation for Brooklyn and Queens board member:
Which parish are you a part of, and how long have you been a parishioner?
My grandparents moved to St. Margaret’s parish in Middle Village when the homes were built in the late 1920s. Generations of my family have been parishioners of St. Margaret’s almost continuously since then. I also serve as a Catholic Foundation for Brooklyn and Queens board member.
Why did you want to get involved working on the Generations of Faith campaign, and what was your role during the campaign?
I had been involved in Alive in Hope 20 years ago and remembered that it did not require an overwhelming effort to be successful. I am also a Catholic Foundation for Brooklyn and Queens board member, and I know personally the importance of the youth evangelization program and the importance it will play in the future of our Diocese. During our campaign, I served as the general chair, working with Msgr. Steven Aguggia, a committee of wonderful parishioners, and our campaign director, to visit and conduct outreach to others. Together, we have raised close to $1 million toward our $740,000 goal.
What has been most gratifying for you about serving on your parish’s campaign committee?
I really enjoyed visiting people I didn’t know before and explaining the importance of the campaign to them.
They were remarkably receptive, even if their means were limited.
What have you learned about your pastor, parish and community from this experience?
I realized how diverse our parish has become, and yet how receptive all groups were to supporting our church. Our pastor rolled up his sleeves and made calls and visits right along with us, following up when our contacts wanted to interact with him personally.
Why would you encourage others to volunteer on their parish committee?
It is good to move out of your comfort zone and reach out to people. You will make new acquaintances for life, and you are doing very important work.