Virginia Kat
EDITOR’S NOTE: A church community is created when people gather together for the love of God. At the same time, Saint Philip’s is comprised of many people who represent different ages, life experiences, and world views.
The “In conversation…” series is one attempt to create possibilities for connection between the different people in our community. As varied as we all are, there are also similarities and mutual interests waiting to be discovered. And there is one thing we all share: a desire to know God and be in relationship with him.
This week’s conversation is with parishioner and volunteer Virginia Kat.
How long have you worshiped at Saint Philip’s?
My family moved to Tucson (from Dayton, Ohio) when I was seven years old—so since then. I was confirmed at Saint Philip’s, and my three boys were baptized and confirmed here, too.
Which service do you typically attend?
For many years I attended the 9:00am liturgy because I taught Sunday School following that service. But since serving as a sub-deacon at the 7:45am service I’ve grown quite fond of its quiet and meditative quality.
What does serving as a sub-deacon mean to you?
The sub-deacon fills a symbolic role as representative of all the baptized. Participating in that way gives me a deeper connection to the liturgy.
What inspires you to be so generous with your time?
I love my church so when help is needed I step in. It’s that simple.
Were you raised in a faith tradition?
I sure was. I’m what’s known as a “cradle Episcopalian.” I still remember my first church in Dayton, Ohio.
What about Saint Philip’s appeals to you?
Quite a few things but the most powerful one is how loving and accepting the community is. I told you that we moved to Tucson when I was seven years old. But what I didn’t mention was that my father died of a heart attack right after we arrived. So there was lots of loss: I left the only home I knew, left my cousins and friends, and pretty much everything I knew up until that point. And then I lost my father.
Coming to Saint Philip’s was one more new thing and I was pretty scared. But the Sunday School teachers were extremely loving and made me feel right at home—from my very first day. And it’s been that way ever since. Even when I left to attend college or moved away, each time I’ve returned, I’ve always felt welcomed. I always feel like I’m coming home.
How are you involved in the parish now?
In addition to serving as a sub-deacon, I also volunteer as a reader and an acolyte. And then there’s the Elder Mission Ministry at The Fountains.
Can you say more about that?
The Elder Mission Ministry combines being a Lay Eucharistic minister with pastoral outreach. Volunteers generally commit to two Sundays a month at an assisted living facility. I help with the 30 minute service at The Fountains on La Cholla (between Orange Grove and River).
Does participating as a volunteer at Saint Philip’s contribute to your spiritual growth?
Oh yes! When I taught Sunday School I was constantly learning. And I continue to learn with my service as a sub-deacon at church and as a volunteer at The Fountains. Being asked to articulate a belief and explain it to someone requires that I understand it first. I love to learn so I enjoy the challenge.
What did you do professionally before retiring?
I was a nurse. I did per-diem work for a while and then worked in the orthopedic field. I took care of patients leading up to surgery and then post-operatively.
Do you have any hobbies?
I love to ride my recumbent bike on the Rillito River bike path aka “the loop.” And I’m an avid quilter. One of my new favorite things to make are pocket prayer quilts. They are about 2 inch squares with a cross inside. They can be given as a little gift to remind people that they are never alone, even if it feels that way sometimes.
What’s one of your guiding principles?
Never be afraid to ask for help. Ask friends, the church, family, a counselor. Ask for help!
What’s one of your super powers?
I can talk to people easily. If someone looks sad or appears hurt, I’m comfortable approaching them and being present in that moment. I guess that ties in to how much I value communication. If I don’t understand something, I’ll ask for clarification.
What have I not asked that I should know?
My husband and I will celebrate 25 years of marriage on September 8. He’s Dutch and I’m finally beginning to learn his language. I’m using the Duo Lingo app and we’re beginning to incorporate Dutch phrases into our everyday conversations. It’s been fun.
When my husband retired a few years ago, he started helping in the kitchen. We discovered we really enjoy cooking together.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I used to own and run The Tucson Diaper Service.
Missed an interview? All previous interviews can be found on Saint Philip’s website under the “About Us” tab. Click here to visit that page.