The Catholic faith engages all of our senses. One of particular importance is sight — we want to ensure our parish and the grounds look beautiful. Guests and parishioners alike should have the chance to experience beauty when they come to Holy Apostles. A dedicated group makes sure that this happens.
Gary Vitt has been helping with mowing and lawn care for more than 35 years. He leads a team of about 20 stewards who mow using walk-behind and rider mowers. The mowing is done about once weekly, with each team mowing about every four weeks. Gary is using his talents to benefit Holy Apostles as he spent his career doing lawn fertilization and overseeing mowing and landscaping at a golf course.
“We are blessed with a beautiful parish that it’s our job to maintain,” Gary says.
In addition, Gary keeps track of the sprinkler system and pays attention to details that keep our outdoor spaces beautiful. He wants to thank all those who have participated in this ministry for their commitment. Some have been doing this work for more than 20 years. More parishioners are welcomed and encouraged to get involved.
Another parishioner who makes sure beauty is very evident at Holy Apostles is Jen Koop. To prepare for the ordination of Most Rev. James R. Golka, the Bishop of Colorado Springs, Jen did a lot of work on the flowers on the parish grounds. She’s continued that work to this day. This work includes flowerpots at the church’s front doors and Mary’s House and various shrubs on the grounds. She also cares for the gardens in the back of the property and at the rectory. Last year, she planted a small garden next to the Marian shrine.
Jen works full-time and fits gardening into her schedule whenever possible. She also knows that others help keep the flowers looking good — she sees the work get done but never knows who has done it.
“Beauty is one way God reaches people,” Jen says. “Beauty is a big deal to me. That’s why I’m also involved in the Music Ministry. Seeing beauty is really my driving force.”
For Jen, this involvement doesn’t feel like work because it comes so naturally to her. She’s glad to use her talents to serve the Lord and the parish.
“Nature does its thing, and I’m the little helper,” she says. “I feel connected when I’m gardening.”
Jen knows this ministry would be great for those who enjoy gardening but maybe don’t have space at their home.
“Anyone who appreciates beauty and wants to help, that would be great,” she says.