Divine Word Parish Council

The Parish Council exists based upon Canon Law. The Divine Word Parish Council:

  • Is a pastoral, consultative group, comprised of team members who are involved in the day-to-day ministry of the parish;
  • Discerns the movement of the Holy Spirit among God’s people in the parish;
  • Assists the pastor in fostering pastoral activities;
  • Investigates and proposes practical conclusions about pastoral works; and
  • Considers all things in the context of prayer and openness to the Holy Spirit for the common good of all.

Specifically, the Council’s Purpose is to enhance the process of:

  • Pastoral planning;
  • Developing pastoral programs;
  • Assisting with long-range planning;
  • Improving pastoral services; and
  • Evaluating the pastoral effectiveness of various programs and services.

The Council meets quarterly, or more frequently if determined necessary by the Council Chair or Pastor.

Current Members:

 Jonathan Withrow, Chair:  My wife Cathy and I were married at Divine Word nearly 20 years ago.  We have been parishioners since 2006.  We have two children, Jonathan and Nora.  I went through the RCIA program at Divine Word and was baptized by Father Dave at the Easter vigil many years ago.  I have worked as a patent attorney for nearly 20 years.  I also serve on the Kirtland Local Schools Board of Education.  My wife and I enjoy traveling and attending our children’s extra-curricular events.

  Melissa DiFini: My husband Joe and I have been parishioners for 13 years and have been married for almost 21 years. I have owned a hair salon for the past 16 years and have been a hairdresser for 28 years. I am a Certified Lay Ecclesial Minister and a Minister of Consolation.  I am a substitute grief support leader for Catholic Cemeteries Association. I taught PSR at DW for 8 years and serve as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Parish Council and Children’s Liturgy of the Word. I have also served in hospice ministry. I enjoy long hikes with my husband and our dog Boomer, reading, praying, exercise, and spending time with family and friends.

  Mary Pat Frey: My 7-year-old granddaughter and I joined Divine Word about 1 1/2 years ago. While I found the parish to be very welcoming and appreciated the Eucharistic Liturgy being so well celebrated, it was my granddaughter’s enthusiasm for the parish that convinced me to register us. I am so impressed with the warm welcome and encouragement that children receive here! My husband, Jim, and I have been happily married for over 40 years and have lived in Lake County the entire time. We have two young adult children who live in the area and five grandchildren – so far. The first half of my career was spent in the business world, while the last 20 years have been devoted to working in the Church. I attended St Mary Seminary and Graduate School of Theology where I received my Master of Arts in Theology and Doctor of Ministry degrees. Currently, I am an adjunct faculty member at the seminary and occasionally provide consulting services to area parishes.

 

  Chris Garrett: I have been a member of Divine Word since July of 1999. My husband Jim and I have been married for over 43 years and have three wonderful children, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, and four grandsons! I retired from my passion of nursing after 43 years. I have been a member of the Parish Council, Art and Environment Group, Parish Picnic Committee, and Cancer Support Group. I am a huge Buckeyes and Browns fan! My hobbies are walking long hikes, reading, crocheting, traveling, and anything that involves spending time with my grandsons!

 

  Donna Trombetti:  My husband Skip and I married in 1975, have three adult children and one granddaughter, Sophia Madonna. We were high school educators until 1986, then became owners of a local business through 2018. Visiting Divine Word in 2014 for confession, I was attracted to the beautiful altar windows, the kindness of Father Dave, and the many welcoming church members.  I’ve found faith and fellowship in OLG, the choir, daily mass and rosary, Divine Mercy group, the rummage sale, PSR substitute teacher, arts and environment committee, sacristan, lector, Parish Council and Extraordinary Minister of the Holy Eucharist. By joining even one group, you can see that the Holy Spirit is alive and well at Divine Word.

Fr. Dave Woost: Pastor

Staff Liaisons:  Debbie Lokar, Pastoral Associate; Deacon John Grazia

 Seeking New Members for Parish Council! If you feel called to volunteer, please contact Fr. Dave.