St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community and the Knights of Columbus Council #6125 are proud to announce that Gilbert and Frances Pharam are the Family of the Month for November 2023.
Gilbert and Frances became members of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Community in 2013. Since that time, they have participated actively in the Community. They each have been in the CRHP program, which they describe as “an amazing experience” that they will “forever cherish.” Both are Scheduled Adorers in the Adoration Chapel. Both participate in the parish’s various bible study opportunities.
Gilbert is the leader of the Guardians of the Grotto and takes pride in this role. He is always on call when the Parish needs volunteers. Frances is a member of Blessed is She and Gratia Plena, and she willingly volunteers whenever she can.
The couple were each born in Belize into large Catholic families—there were eight in Gilbert’s family and 13 in Frances’ family. They each later came to the United States, eventually meeting 1979 in Los Angeles. They have been married for 43 years. Gilbert says, “The Catholic faith has been with us since our youth. We have sought to continually strengthen our faith and to keep God as the center of our lives.” Frances says, “God has blessed us with three wonderful daughters, who now have their own children—our five granddaughters and two grandsons. Our daughters attended Catholic school. When they were young, we made sure to stress the importance of God in their lives, and we continue to do this as they grow older.”
Regarding becoming members of St. John’s, Gilbert says, “We couldn’t have made a better decision. Father John and the members of the Church welcomed us with open arms and continue to do so.” Frances says, “Here we are like family. The environment is amazing, and we are happy to be surrounded by so many amazing individuals. It’s an honor to be a part of this community and worship together.”
Thank you, Gilbert and Frances, for your commitment to serve. You are a blessing to the Parish. We applaud you for your dedication to the community.