Rob Meraz gives generously of his time to St. Stephen the Martyr as a catechist in our Religious Education program. He has also volunteered as PAL volleyball coordinator and volleyball coach. Rob enjoys being able to share his faith with the students but never anticipated the learning and enjoyment he would receive back; it’s a large part of why he continues to volunteer. Rob and his wife Lynnelle have been parishioners since 2012. They have four daughters: MaKenna (15), twins Ayla and Kaydence (13), and Kinley (8); and two pug rescues who they love so much. We thank Rob for letting us share his story!

How did you get started volunteering at St. Stephen the Martyr? My girls were enrolled in RE classes and the parish was looking for catechists at the time. After inquiring about what was involved in volunteering, I felt like this was a great way to give back to our community.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering? Seeing the faith in our students provides great hope in me. It brightens my day. The faith and hope they have provides a bright light as to what our world can be and the importance of helping our students grow in their faith. The curriculum today is so different than when I was their age. I feel like I can help evangelize and not just sacramentalize our young people.

What does St. Stephen the Martyr mean to you? St. Stephens feels like home to me. It is encouraging to gather and celebrate mass with such a large community. I’ve encountered such great grace and mercy from all of our priests and deacons and volunteers that I know this is where I belong. I feel like the community as a whole is constantly working towards the mission Jesus Christ gave us.

Do you have any advice to other parishioners? Don’t worry about what you think you have or don’t have to offer. Jesus always finds a way and will handle the rest. All you have to do is say “yes, I will serve!” Let Him work through you, and you will be amazed at what He does for you and those you are helping. Start anywhere you can. The people here are so good to be around and will support and help you. Before you know it, you’ll be producing good fruit and have deep roots in our parish community.