Denver Catholic

34 DECEMBER 2020 | DENVER CATHOLIC As communications director and IT support at Spirit of Christ Parish in Arvada, Patti Hayes has directly worked to solve the numerous challenges that have arisen in light of the pandemic. She believes it has been an opportunity to help parishes have a greater digital presence. The first challenge had involved communicating with all the parishioners. "We had a population who relied heavily on the bulletin, and all of a sudden we can't have people in the church," she said. So she started using different channels to try to better communicate with parishioners. She decided to send frequent emails and Flocknote messages, keep the website updated and be available to help parishioners. "Elderly parishioners call me saying they can't read an email or open a PDF file, so I sit there on the phone with them and make sure they get everything they need," she said. Besides the communications challenges, she has also helped develop new ways of carrying out current ministries by creating online forms and pick-up schedules, and livestreaming masses and events. "We want to be able to keep feeding our parishioners, but how do you do that if you can't communicate with them? That's why technology has been wonderful," she concluded. PAT T I H AY E S When someone needs help with renewing a driver's license or state I.D., or even needs a new copy of their birth certificate, Robert Fisher at Holy Ghost Parish in Denver is the guy to call. A former missionary for Christ in the City, Fisher heads up the Social Ministry office at Holy Ghost. It might not be the most glamorous or extravagant way to serve those in need, but true discipleship doesn't need to be extravagant in how we serve others. Fisher humbly carries out a quiet, unassuming and faithful discipleship through Holy Ghost's social ministry, lending a helping hand to those who need it and a listening ear to people coming from all different walks of life. "So many times, I think I really find Christ in these situations," Fisher said. "It's just very humbling to listen to their stories and where they've came from. I find the most joy hearing from them and talking with them and just sitting with them, especially when they don't need something, because then they're searching and they're open to sit down and talk. We can just have a conversation. And I think that's what I love the most." R O B E RT F I S H E R G E R I K E L L E Y Before retirement, Geri Kelley worked as an administrator for many years. A parishioner of Holy Name Parish in Sheridan, she learned about the Society of St. Vincent de Paul six years ago and, newly retired at the time, decided to volunteer for it and fill a need at the parish. Little did she know how perfect of a fit it would be for her. Members of the Society are called Vincentians, and they help folks primarily in need of rent or utilities assistance. A key charism of Vincentians is face-to-face connection with the people they assist. "When you visit people, they're amazed that you actually come to visit them rather than having to take all their children in the van down to the accounting office, sit in these uncomfortable chairs and wait for the number to be called," Kelley said. Though Kelley works behind the scenes to ensure people get the help they need, she does so joyfully and with a disciple's heart. "It's an honor. When they express their gratitude, I'm quick to remind them that I am only the middle person and behind me there stands a whole parish of generous people that wish the best for you," Kelley said. "I'm just here to help them help you."

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