St. Joseph, Eldersburg, welcomes Andrea Springer

St. Joseph Catholic Community in Eldersburg is happy to welcome Andrea Springer as Pastoral Associate for Small Church Communities and Faith Enrichment.  While the job title may be a bit overwhelming at first, the job itself is just what Andrea describes 
as a "dream come true" for her.  Having grown up in St. Joseph's parish, and having been an active church volunteer all her life, Andrea is pleased to be a fulltime staff member of a place which has been home to her family: parents; siblings; husband, John; and 7 year old son, Noah.

Andrea holds a bachelor of arts degree from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland.  In January, 2002 she will begin work at St. Mary's Seminary and University on her masters degree in Church Ministries, with emphasis on congregational leadership.  Her volunteer ministry work at St. Joseph Parish over the years has included membership in the Pastoral Council, Heritage of Hope, Renewing the Vision and the Christian Service Commission.

Referring to the job title, Andrea explains that the "Small Church Communities" part refers to initiating and coordinating the many small groups of adults within the parish 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!   Regarding "Faith Enrichment," Andrea plans and implements a series of faith enriching sessions for adults, especially the Parish's annual Lenten Retreat Week.

"The parishioners of St. Joseph are very supportive, warm and welcoming.  My job is a blessing; it's what I've been waiting for," Andrea said of her new position.

Central Maryland wishes Andrea many happy years in her ministry!