The newly enhanced plaza in front of Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in

Associates (L-R) Curt and Kathy Saindon, Ken and Michelle Barrie and John Dussman

Associates (L-R) Curt and Kathy Saindon, Ken and Michelle Barrie and John Dussman

Bourbonnais served as the perfect entry into church for an evening prayer and commitment ceremony for the Viatorian Community’s newest members.

Associates Curt and Kathy Saindon of Bourbonnais, and John Dussman of Arlington Heights made a first commitment of two years to the Viatorian Community, before Associates Ken and Michelle Barrie of St. Anne, IL, made their definitive commitments.

Each one brings unique gifts to the wider Viatorian Community. Curt Saindon is an assistant superintendent of finance and operations in South suburban Frankfort, while Kathy is a speech and language pathologist at a middle school in Bradley. Both have been active parishioners at St. George Parish in Bourbonnais, working together with other Viatorian associates and Fr. Dan Belanger, CSV, pastor.

Fr. Thomas von Behren accepts the commitments of Curt and Kathy Saindon

Fr. Thomas von Behren accepts the commitments of Curt and Kathy Saindon

John Dussman is a Midwest sales manager for Town Square Publications, which specializes in chamber of commerce development. He has been an active parishioner at St. James Catholic Church in Arlington Heights and currently coordinates the garden ministry at the Province Center.

Associate John Dussman prepares to sign his commitment

Associate John Dussman prepares to sign his commitment

Ken and Michelle Barrie serve as religious education and youth ministry coordinators for St. Patrick Church, led by Fr. John Peeters, CSV, pastor. Beyond their staff positions, they have led the Hearts for Hope service trip to Pembroke, IL, for nearly 20 years. Their definitive commitments came after 10 years as associates and working hand in hand with professed Viatorians to advance the charism of Fr. Louis Querbes.

Fr. Thomas von Behren accepts the definitive commitments of Associates Michelle and Ken Barrie

Fr. Thomas von Behren accepts the definitive commitments of Associates Michelle and Ken Barrie

Fr. Thomas von Behren, CSV, provincial, accepted their commitments and blessed each of the new associates.

“What a wonderful celebration of our faith,” Fr. von Behren said. “Thank you for making this important commitment to the Viatorian Community. May our dedication to the mission and vision of the Viatorian Community, bear fruit in all of our ministries.”