Since October 2022, Erin Galla has been the face and voice of the parish, joyfully receiving parishioners and guests at our doors, and greeting people over the phone. Immediately, her heart was drawn to the energy of our food pantry, endearing herself to those who both serve and are served. She became a familiar face at our monthly Neighbor to Neighbor Meal, orchestrated efforts with our produce distribution, and helped ensure we maintain efforts surrounding social justice, as we continue to reprioritize with diligence, a pastoral associate. Many of you know I first met Erin, her husband, Ken, and their two sons, Tim and Matthew, at St. Charles, Parma, where I was first assigned. Yes, she has been making that drive to us every day for nearly two years, and came to us at a time when we had been without an administrative assistant for nine months! Some months ago, she shared that she is simply at a place in life where she desires to be further present to her family and home parish. If anything, she quipped, “Saint Noel is to blame!” Her observation of and selfless participation in our own efforts to live out the corporal works of mercy here at St. Noel, further ignited a passion within her to fulfill our Lord’s command, “Give them some food yourselves” (Luke 9:13), at her own beloved St. Charles. 

Without hesitation, Erin agreed to assist with a transition as we searched for her successor. I am pleased to welcome Christian Gracie, who comes to us with over twenty years experience of administration within a parish. For nearly three weeks, the pair have sat side-by-side training to pass the baton. I look forward to officially welcoming and introducing Christian to you in the days ahead.

Erin’s last day with us at the front desk will be this coming Friday, August 23. I intend to close the office early that afternoon, so the staff and I can treat her and bid a fond farewell. If you would like to stop in before then and wish her well, I am certain it would be welcomed and appreciated.

I will miss her unteachable professionalism, infectious laughter, and maternal heart on a daily basis, and I thank her for the ministry she exercised to our parish family while she was ours.

Erin, from our parish to yours, ad multos annos,

Fr. Terry, the Staff, and
Parishioners of Saint Noel