Mary Ann Pawelko
Mary Ann and her husband, Rich, have been married for 28 years. Mary Ann and Rich sensed God calling them to pursue their dreams of having a family through adoption from the foster care system. Mary Ann and Rich joyfully adopted five children. They are currently all young adults, ranging in age from 28 to 22 years old. With the rich and diverse experience Mary Ann had in raising her children, she sought to put her personal experience toward a profession. Mary Ann earned her Masters of Social Work from Loyola University Chicago.
Mary Ann is a licensed clinical social worker who has worked as a therapist, substance abuse counselor, and case manager for seven years. Mary Ann has provided counseling for families with children who had been psychiatrically hospitalized or at risk of hospitalization. Having been a foster parent for fifteen years, Mary Ann has had a heart to help those families troubled and struggling to provide a safe and nurturing home for their children. With her unique perspective and professional training, Mary Ann worked for the state of Illinois as a Child Welfare Specialist.
Mary Ann understands that as Christians we love the Lord, and we have purpose in this life. However, this does not mean that our lives are free from emotional struggles. God made us so wonderful and so complex. We know as Christians that we have scripture, the Holy Spirit, and each other as the body of believers to help one another.
"Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith… Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together… but let us encourage one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
—Hebrews 10:22-25 NIV
Having been raised Roman Catholic, Mary Ann and her husband began by raising their children in the Catholic Church, as well. Going through the special challenges of raising their family, that were truly life changing, Mary Ann and Rich have called Willow Creek Community Church their church home for the past 12 years. Mary Ann has served in various capacities over the years, and currently serves in the children’s ministry of Willow Creek’s McHenry County regional site. Now as grandparents, they enjoy as much time as possible with their six beautiful grandchildren. For pastimes, Mary Ann enjoys her pets, gardening, and traveling.
