Parish Pastoral Council

Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) is a consultative body that represents the parish community with a role to make recommendations to the pastor of the parish.

A pastoral council has its basis in Canon Law (Canon 536). The bishop of a diocese can establish a pastoral council in each parish that is presided over by the pastor. A parish council is engaged in pastoral care of a parish and is regulated by the norms laid down by the bishop. The principal role of a pastoral council is to participate in pastoral planning into the future by adhering to the mission and vision of both the diocese and the parish. This involves a three-fold approach: one, to conduct needs analysis and prioritize pastoral requirements; two, to set and develop goals and objectives; and three, to recommend a set of intended actions to achieve those goals and objectives. A pastoral council has a three-year term, which can be extended to another term.

Along with the pastor, they will be setting strategic directions for the pastoral team and for the Finance Committee.

PPC Members

Nick Vecchio

I was born and raised in London. I have been married to my amazing wife, Carmela, for almost 40 years. Together we have raised three incredible children. I have been a parishioner at St. John the Divine for over 30 years.

Although I retired as a high school principal almost eight years ago, I continue to support the London District Catholic School Board whenever there is a need.

When I am not working at one of the schools, I can be found

working in our vegetable and flower gardens, painting homes, helping our children with their renos, bowling, and volunteering with the Knights of Columbus.

Carmela Vecchio

Alan Coombs

My name is Alan Coombs. My wife and I have been parishioners of St. George since we moved to London 15 years ago, and we started attending Mass at St. John the Divine about four years ago.

We have always loved the community both parishes allow us to be a part of.

My wife and I have been helping with Baptism prep for about 10 years, and love helping families begin to see their life in church with their sons and daughters. We have two kids of our own that help us empathize with the difficulty that sometimes comes in encouraging youth to join adults in Mass.

I love baseball and follow the Blue Jays and Cubs as my favourite teams. I do my best to explore the beautiful trails London has to offer when in between innings!

Donna Kwan

I grew up in Brant County. As a first generation kid, I worked at the family restaurants. Some of my favourite memories of this are when first responders or those in less fortunate circumstances came in, and their meals were on the house. I asked why we did this, and my parents' response was that we all serve: some serve in the line of duty, and others do what they can, whether preparing a hot meal, helping someone move, or making someone smile. It is my honour to serve you as a member of the Parish Pastoral Council.

Julia Das

My husband, James, and I have been married for two years and currently attend St. George's with our daughter, Danielle. I have an educational background in Catholic Studies and Disability Studies, which has led me into a career in special education with the London District Catholic School Board. I hope to see this Family of churches grow, welcome, and support people who want to deepen their faith. It is important that we become aware of the issues facing the church today and that we respond in a Christ-like way. I'm looking forward to seeing how my knowledge and experience with ecumenism and inclusion will lead to building a more well-rounded parish community.

Ken Walsh

Teri Sabourin

Harold Stewart

I have been married to my wife, Mary Lou, for a half century and counting. We have two sons and two granddaughters. I retired after spending almost 40 years in the financial service industry on the insurance and investment side of things. Some would describe what I did as an advisor’s advisor. I believe one of my strengths is being able to look at circumstances from all points of view and offer advice and solutions based on what works best for everyone.

Rick Tomaszewski

I was raised in Chatham, Ont. with seven siblings. My parents drove home the value of a strong Catholic home life filled with love, faith, and service linked to our Polish heritage. I moved to London after graduating from Laurier with a BSc in 1986. I've been married to Gina for 34 years, and we are blessed with two daughters and one grandson. I have been a member of St. John the Divine since 2000 and participate in the St Vincent de Paul and Knights of Columbus organizations. I have spend my 37-year career in sales and software/controls engineering, with my recent role as a strategic account manager. I’m currently semi-retired and look forward to serving with the parish council and continuing to nourish my faith. I am a strong believer in our ability to come up with creative solutions to challenges when God is at the centre and teamwork based on humility is exercised.