Spotlight on Chuck and Maura Coulter
 
 
Q: What do you like about St. Jude parish?
When we moved to Chalfont in May of 1998, Maura and I had no idea what a wonderful place St. Jude’s was – and still is. There are so many things to like about St Jude’s it is difficult to narrow down. First and foremost is the spirituality of the parish. It is a vibrant parish, with Christ being at the center. Every spiritual event, from Sunday Mass, to 40 Hours, to Holy Day celebrations, is practiced with reverence and holiness in the Catholic tradition. In addition, there are so many wonderful people who are parishioners who love St Jude’s like we do.
 
Q: In what way do you participate in parish life?
Maura and I participate and have participated in many parish activities. Currently, Maura and I present the financial module at St. Jude’s Pre-Cana classes. This is a wonderful experience three times per year. We have been involved in a whole variety of school activities over the years, from the school play (Maura) to CYO coaching (Chuck). Both Maura and I have attended the CRHP retreats and try to assist if time permits, and I am also an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion.
 
Q: Tell me about your family – how long have you been married? 
Chuck and I have been married 26 years. We are blessed with 5 children: Patrick (25), Deirdre (22), Bridget (20), Ciara (17), and Kevin (14). All attended St. Jude School from Pre-K to 8 ^th grade. Patrick has graduated from LaSalle with a degree in business/finance and currently works for an insurance firm in Valley Forge. Deirdre graduated from Providence College and is currently attending Notre Dame for her PhD in Mathematics. Bridget is a 3 ^rd year nursing student at Neumann University in Aston, PA. Ciara is a senior at Lansdale Catholic and is actively looking at colleges. Finally, Kevin is a freshman at Lansdale Catholic and, fun fact, is a Rubik’s cube champ.
 
Q: What role does faith play in your marriage?
Faith plays a major role in our life. One of the things that brought us together initially was the love of the Catholic Church. We were both raised as Catholics and wanted to continue throughout our lives. Our belief in Jesus and participation in the sacraments has brought us through many joyful times as well as difficult times. We know that God has a plan for our family.
 
Q: Do you have any suggestions on how to pass on your faith to your children?  
One of the things that Maura and I did as new parents was to bring our kids to Mass from the very beginning. We also let our children develop their own love and devotion for Jesus and Mary. Maura and I laid the foundation and St. Jude School/Church provided the fertile ground for their faith to grow. We thank God that our children still choose to actively participate in their Catholic faith. It is such a blessing.
 
Q: What would people be surprised to know about you?
Maura and I met over a real estate transaction. Maura bought her first house and I facilitated the mortgage.
 
Q: Any fun activities and hobbies?
Chuck is an avid follower of Philadelphia sports teams while I only have interest in sports if our children are participating. The whole family loves spending time down the shore in North Wildwood in a little bungalow that is not too far from the beach and our favorite Irish Pub!