Everyday Holiness

Tell us about where you're from and your family.
 
I am originally from Westwego, Louisiana, where I received baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation at Our Lady of Prompt Succor. My husband, Tate, and I celebrated five years of marriage on January 24. I have two children of my own and three stepchildren. My oldest son, Wilson, is married to Kristy, and they have blessed us with two grandchildren, Colt and Emreigh. My youngest son, Terry, passed away five years ago. Tate’s children—Seth, Sarah, and Sierra—currently live in California. We also have a four-year-old dog, Rocky.
 
What is your role within the Diocese?
 
I serve as the Secretary and Bookkeeper at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Galliano and will celebrate my 3^rd year there in April. 
 
How do you like to get involved with your faith?
 
I start my day at the gym at 5 AM and attend Mass at 7 AM when I can. On Wednesdays, I lead the Rosary at 6:30 AM and lector at the 7 AM Mass. Twice a month, I serve as a commentator, lector, and extraordinary minister of Holy Communion at the 10 AM Sunday Mass. I am also the president of the Terry L. Hunter III Foundation, named after my son Terry, who died by suicide in May 2019. The foundation provides scholarships and suicide prevention resources to local high schools.
 
Do you have a favorite Saint? How does their example guide you during Lent?
 
St. Dymphna is my favorite right now. Her intercession guides our mission of prayer for those struggling with anxiety, depression, and mental health challenges.
 
How do you pursue holiness during Lent?
 
This year we have discussed attending the Way of the Cross every Friday.  We have not done this in the past, but I feel a calling for it this year. I try to remember that Lent is the time to remember what Jesus sacrificed for me and my family. 
  
The path to holiness can be challenging sometimes. How do you persevere through those challenges and what encouragement can you offer others?
My challenge is to sit in silence with God every day. There are so many ways to be with God one-on-one. My encouragement for others (and myself), would be to challenge yourself to find “God Time” – that one-on-one silence with God and time of reflection for the day.
 
How has Lent changed for you over the years?
 
I watched The Passion of the Christ for the first time in 2022 and it deeply impacted me. Seeing the suffering that Jesus went through for me and my family and how Mary’s love continued even after death his death… seeing how Jesus told his father in heaven when he was at the brink of death, “Forgive them father for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:24). They are examples to me of how love prevailed. I think Lent is a true testimony of love.
 
What is your advice to anyone who wants to get the most out of Lent this year?
 
Get out of your comfort zone and seek the Lord’s presence!