Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church
Hot Springs Village, Arkansas
I have to be honest that I compose this pastor's column without my "cheat sheet". Now before you think badly of what Ijust said, let me change my terminology to "information sheet" which is what I normally see before telling you about our VIP each month. In the case of our VIP this month, Elsa Naeger, I feel capable of informing you about her from my many experiences with her over the years, as well as what I am aware of that she has done that makes her a good choice as VIP. 9Very Important Parishioner) for Sacred Heart Parish.

I start with something personal as Elsa has had me (and a few times in the past my mother) over for dinner and nice conversation. She did this when her dear husband of over 50 years, Leo, was still with us in this world and in times since he has gone to be with the Lord. I have always appreciated her good cooking and the relaxed atmosphere of our visits. I have always appreciated her "mom like" demeanor around me. I have also been impressed over the years by Elsa's commitment to keep herself healthy and active. She is an avid and good swimmer who gets in many laps in the Coronado pool each week. Her fitness is obvious in that she seems to alwys be "on the go" (which sounds like someone else you know.) She is a mainstay at many of our parish's social events and excels with her good friend and fellow parisioner, Francisco Gutierrez on the dance floor.

Of course, she has distinguished herself in the area of ministry as a faithful sacristan, Eucharistic Adorer, and an active member of LOSH. and her guild. She recently volunteered to head up our 10th anniversary of Eucharistic Adoration Dinner which is coming up soon and has shown herself to be an organized person whose pleasant disposition leads epople to say "yes" to helping her with this important endeavor. Since she is often a "behind the scenes" disciple of the Lord, I feel confident to say that I am probably leaving out more than a few activities and ministries in which she is a help to others. Still I can truly say in reference to her, that we need more "Elsa Naeger's" in this world to show others how many blessings come to and through people who seek to have the Lord as the center of their lives. God bless you, Elsa!