Parish and School News

Salute to secretaries

Friday 20 July 2012
Kairos Catholic Journal

HOLY Family Church secretaries, Robyn Coughlan and Susan Haladjian, write about their work at the Parish in Mount Waverly.

Robyn
I have been employed at Holy Family for 12 years and enjoy the variety of work my job provides. I work three days a week and Susan works Thursdays and Fridays.
There are many aspects of my job that I enjoy, but the one that gives me a great deal of satisfaction is welcoming and assisting parishioners and visitors that come to the parish office, and answering inquiries over the telephone.
In such a large parish there is always someone calling in for a friendly chat or some advice.
The best thing about Holy Family is our many dedicated volunteers who assist in making the parish such a vibrant and welcoming community. Together with parish priest Fr Laurence Cortez and Malcolm, our pastoral associate, we share a friendly and supportive team environment.
My favourite work tool would have to be my computer, which I use every day. It enables me to communicate, be creative and productive. Maintaining the database is a daily task—adding new families, baptisms, weddings and updating telephone numbers, addresses and personal details of parishioners. Currently I am trying to master the PACS Financials software.
Away from work, I enjoy being at home in the kitchen cooking for my family and friends. When I get the chance I unwind by sewing and knitting, or taking the dog for a long walk.

Susan
I first began at Holy Family parish office in May 2001 as a temporary secretary, filling in for the previous secretary who was on maternity leave. Upon her return I left the parish office, but returned when she resigned. I have been in the parish office now for eight years.
What I enjoy most about my job is the wide variety of tasks, in particular the interaction I have with the parishioners and the visitors who come to the parish office for a chat or who may need help or guidance. Working close to home is also a bonus.
I am responsible for preparing the weekly bulletins, the liturgy texts and the PowerPoint slides of the hymns for the weekend Masses and performing general administrative duties.
In our parish we have many hard-working and dedicated volunteers who assist the parish by organising events and fundraising activities. The best thing about working in our parish is its friendly environment and the support for one another.
My favourite office tool is our new photocopier, which has made my job a lot easier. It prints, collates and folds the bulletins at the one time. This saves a lot of time and allows me to do other work in the meantime.
Outside of work, I like to relax with my family and friends. I also enjoy cooking, especially new dishes, and occasionally dining out at new restaurants.

Photo courtesy of Holy Family Parish, Mount Waverly