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Ministry Coordinator Has A Need To Be With People

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By SARAH ROTHWELL, The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 27, 2007

TEMPLE TERRACE - Terry Boehm, 56, grew up surrounded by people of faith. She attended Catholic school in Wisconsin, where she learned the value of helping others. Today, Boehm is coordinator of ministries at Corpus Christi Catholic Church of Temple Terrace, 9715 N. 56th St.

When and why did you begin your work with the Catholic church?

I was raised to be involved with the church. My mom was very involved. At the school, the nuns always got us involved in things. I played the organ, helped in the church and was in mission clubs. For me, it was a way of life.

I took my first job with the church in 1982. I was a youth minister and choir director at a church in Lakeland.

What is your educational background?

I have a master's in social work from the University of South Florida and a bachelor's in biology from Florida Southern College in Lakeland.

I started out thinking I wanted to work in a lab, but then I realized I like people too much. In a lab, I was isolated. With the church, I get to meet new people all the time.

What brought you to Corpus Christi?

When my husband and I moved to Tampa, I was looking for a school for my children. Corpus Christi seemed homey and nice. I felt a sense of community here.

I felt called to be here.

I started as an employee in 1996. I was a guidance counselor in the school and a youth minister. The two jobs went hand in hand.

When did you accept your position as coordinator of ministries? What is your job description?

I started this job in November 2000. I oversee the ministries in the parish. I oversee Sunday Mass and special services. I oversee the decoration of the church and make sure the church is prepared for special events and seasons.

I help different groups at the church. I coordinate their efforts and make sure nothing overlaps. I help things happen smoothly. I serve as a resource for the different groups at the church.

What do you like about Corpus Christi?

I really love the people here. It is a spiritual home. We make a big effort to include people. All of us try to meet new people and find a place for them here. We try to be hospitable and welcoming.

My husband and I have lived in Palm Harbor for six years, but I make the drive to work every day because I love it here.

Do your children still attend church at Corpus Christi?

I have three children. They're all grown now. Two live in Atlanta. One lives here. He's married and goes to church here. His daughter goes to school here.

What do you like about the Catholic church in general?

I was 24 when my husband and I first moved to Florida. I didn't know anyone. My mom said, 'Go to the Catholic church and register; that is your home.' It's true. You always belong at the church, no matter where you are.

When you aren't working, what do you do?

I love gardening. I love exercise and fitness. I swim, bike and go to the gym.

Do you plan on staying at Corpus Christi until you retire?

I don't know. I take it a year at a time.

If someone is new to the church and has questions, what's a good way to get in touch with you?

They can call or stop by my office. I work on some Sundays, and I'm in the office then, too. We're one of the few parishes that have our office open on Sundays. It's nice because a lot of people have to work during the week. Sundays are a time when it's easy for people to come in.

If someone asked you, 'Why join Corpus Christi?' what would you say?

Our parish is very diverse. It's a welcoming place where we invite people to get involved. We have lots of families here, and we have the school. Still, the church isn't so big that you get lost. The church seats only 400 to 500 people, so it feels more intimate.

Boehm can be reached at (813) 988-1593. Sarah Rothwell can be reached at (813) 865-4845 or srothwell@tampatrib.com.

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