Estevan and Elva Cristan of St. Judes Catholic Church in Gun Barrel City, Texas, married for forty-five years, were blessed with six children, one adopted. This, in itself, is a form of Catholic Stewardship.
Elva, age sixty-three, and Estevan, age sixty-five, are more than active members of church, holding down many volunteer positions.
Elva is involved at working in the church office, working with our youth, not to mention her contribution at recent Deanery meetings. She has also acted as an interpreter for our Spanish Priest and parishioners. Estevan, a valued member of our Pastoral Council, Greeter, Lector, and Eucharistic Minister, has taught adult Faith Formation. He also taught U.S.Citizenship to recent immigrants.
Estevan, with his genuine smile and warm welcome at Sunday Mass, greeted and helped those who needed help. Whether in a wheelchair, or with a cane, Estevan could be counted on.
This Dynamic Duo was blessed with twelve grandchildren and one great-grandchild, all equally loved by Elva and Estevan.
Some nine years ago Elva was given five months to live. God, however, had another plan for her. Elva had a liver transplant. Estevan also needed one, but because he had contracted five cancerous tumors, a liver transplant could not be accomplished.
Estevan went home to God this year, and we all feel sure that he is Gods greeter in Heaven, welcoming all with his smile and warm handshake.