MEET PARISHIONER MARIE SPODEN: Embracing the Joy of Giving

Over the years, Marie Spoden has discovered one of the greatest secrets to living a happy and fulfilled life.

“I have noticed as I have gotten older, that I personally feel happier when I can give to others and help someone who really needs it,” she says. “The more you give, the more joy you have in giving. Giving has gradually become more and more a natural part of my life, and this has made it easier for me to look at the brighter side of things.”

Although Marie grew up Catholic, her love for serving Christ and others became more profound in high school after attending a youth retreat offered through the Franciscan University of Steubenville.

“It helped me grow as a Catholic, and I began to understand what God wanted of me,” she says. “He was pushing me to find a way to help others. Then I went to the Franciscan University of Steubenville for a year, which deepened my faith as well.”

Now as a mother to Diane, 15, and Timothy, 12, and wife to her husband, Ronald, Marie strives to love her family by leaning on the pillar of prayer.

“Family prayer is very important to us,” she says. “We say our prayers together regularly and go to Mass together.”

She has also learned that stewardship starts at home, and the power of a good example goes a long way.

“I believe that if I can keep my own faith strong and show it to my children, they will see how important it is,” Marie says. “I want them to realize how valuable it is to give to others. Sometimes, when we are doing things at home, such as cleaning out closets or packing food for family members, they naturally just think of giving some of the things to others. It is so nice to see this!”

Further, Marie brings the stewardship vision to life by giving her time and talent to our parish as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. She and Ronald teach Confirmation preparation classes to 11th-graders as well.

“When we first came to our parish, we were invited to substitute teach for the Faith Formation program, and we figured we might as well since it wouldn’t take a lot of time,” Marie says. “Then, I began to enjoy it more and more, and eventually we both started teaching together. I really enjoy doing things along with my husband, and volunteering has helped bring us closer to Christ and to one another.”

As is typical when one gives their time and talent to something, they find themselves abundantly blessed in return.

“I have been learning a lot from teaching the class,” Marie says. “My faith has gotten stronger, and just knowing the students are learning is inspiring me to learn as well.”

When asked what stewardship means to her, Marie offers a reflective insight.

“Stewardship is very important to me,” she says. “It means giving back to your parish and others and showing your support for them through your faith. It is a good thing to give back, even if you don’t always get something back in return. You can just rejoice in the fact that you were able to help. Giving is a reward in itself!”

Marie Spoden and family