Steve Baldasti

Some insight about myself - I'm the oldest of my parent's children. I'm always on the watch for families with 3 boys, that was the make up of our family. My mom did have a miscarriage a year or so after my youngest brother was born, and my middle brother, Tom, passed away suddenly when he was 29, in 1980. My parents lived up to their European heritage of constantly moving - we lived in Chicago, Peoria, Valparaiso, Mundelein, Rockford, Freeport, Pearl City, Winnebago, we finally moved back to Chicago in 1970. I'm not done, then on to Park Ridge. I left the nest in 1976, went to Chicago, Niles, Schaumburg and FINALLY for the past 26+ years in Hoffman Estates. My folks moved on to Belvidere, back to Niles, then moved by me in 1994. If they were still alive I think they would still be moving.

I have worked in Chicago most of my career, for Bankers Life, Levy Restaurants, and Giordano's. I did have a short cup of coffee in Aurora with Alexander Lumber. I've also been out of work twice. Because of these times, I do understand the struggle and the uncertainty life presents. But faith in God, that He will provide, has carried me through these times. It doesn't put food on the table or pay the bills, but the worry and anxiety are quelled knowing God leads and I follow.

My parents were extremely proud of the fact that I was being considered for the Diaconate. When I told them I had been invited to a meeting about the Diaconate, my Mom said to my Dad, "Fred we're having a party for that boy." Needless to say dad passed away 9 months prior to ordination and my mom, Anne, was not able to attend due to the deterioration of her health from Alzheimer's disease.

I have been involved in a few ministries here at St. Hubert. I was a leader in the Jr. High program starting in 1989. What an experience for a guy with no kids! Those young men and women were my kids once a week for 2 hours. And what better way to over come your inhibitions then on Group Color night, showing up as Papa Smurf on the Blue team, or wearing red long johns, red gym shoes, and coloring my hands and face red as a member of the Red team. Little did I know God had more in store. As mentioned the invitation to consider the Diaconate, being accepted into formation and constantly feeling the tug inside - this is where God wants me. Long time friends saying, "your going to become a WHAT!" They're not really going to ordain YOU are they. I would smile and say yes, it's true. Thank you St. Paul for your example. I am a member of the RCIA team and have been for a number of years. I've also been trained and certified as a Spiritual Director, so if any one is interested I would be more then happy to journey with you. One more brief insight - to show you how God moves, I have no pets, yet on Oct. 4 I have been blessed to lead the Prayer Service to bless your pets. That day is the Feast Day of one of my favorite saints, St. Francis. Go figure.

I know I'm bragging, but I think we all feel the same way - there is no better parish then St. Hubert - to pray, to make friends and to grow closer to God. Go Knights!