St. Joseph, Eldersburg, welcomes Jackie Antkowiak
by Judy Williams

Jackie Antkowiak is the new Pastoral Associate for Adult Formation at St. Joseph Catholic Community in Eldersburg.  In her position, Jackie will be coordinating the parish's Small Church Communities - small groups of parishioners who meet regularly in order to focus on the Sunday Gospel and share with one another how it relates to living their lives.  Some of these groups have their roots in the RENEW small group sessions which began nearly 20 years ago!  This fall Jackie will be introducing the "Why Catholic?" program to the small groups, which will enrich them, and hopefully cause the number of groups to increase.  Jackie also coordinates the parish bereavement programs; one for adults and "Courage Kids," a bereavement program specifically tailored to meet the needs of youth who are suffering from loss.

Before joining the staff of St. Joseph's, Jackie worked in the communications office of the Maryland Province Jesuits and, before that, for the Methodist Conference in Columbia, Maryland.  A long time member of the parish, Jackie previously served as the interim liturgist, and is also active within the parish as a cantor, choir member and coordinator of the parish healing team.

Looking to the future, Jackie hopes to introduce parish retreats to the community - retreats for young mothers, married couples and for men and women.  Jackie lives in Owings Mills, and is the mother of two grown sons and five grandchildren.

The Catholic Education Ministries Center of Central Maryland provides ongoing support to the Catechetical Ministries of Carroll, Frederick, and Washington Counties. This includes training programs for leaders and volunteers in parishes and schools, plus consultation in all areas of catechesis.

Catholic Education Ministries - Mount Saint Mary's, Emmitsburg, 21727
(301) 447-3707   FAX: (301) 447-5399    [More about the Center]