As Rose Davidson approaches her retirement after over two decades as the Parish Life Administrator at Holy Family Parish in Marion County, she reflects on her versatile role and the relationships she has formed. Known for handling a wide range of tasks from event planning to bookkeeping, Davidson emphasizes that there are some responsibilities she leaves to others. “I don’t do what the priest does,” she said. “I don’t handle sacraments.”

Davidson’s tenure allowed her to build close connections within the parish community, which spans four churches across different towns. “We are different – with four churches spread out in four towns – but I can see somebody in Mass or hear a name and I immediately know if they’re a parishioner or visitor,” she stated.

Her appreciation for priests grew during her time at Holy Family Parish. She noted, “I came to understand how hard it is to be a priest and all the things priests give up.” Despite their busy schedules, Davidson highlighted that "the care of souls takes precedence," sharing an experience where she quickly assisted a priest responding to a parishioner's urgent need.

Davidson served under five pastors throughout her career, each bringing unique qualities. Her first boss was Fr. Steve Gronert, followed by Fr. Hien Nguyen, whose youthful appearance led some to mistake him for an exchange student rather than a pastor.

Originally from Hays and having settled in Wichita with her husband Greg early in their marriage, Davidson transitioned into church work after leaving Koch Industries due to long hours conflicting with family life. She initially served as director of religious education before taking on the role of parish life administrator when the previous holder retired.

Reflecting on significant events like renovations and return ceremonies within the parish, Davidson also cherished organizing social gatherings such as Mardi Gras parties and New Year’s Eve dances. These activities helped strengthen interpersonal bonds among parish members.

Davidson credits current pastor Fr. Isaac Coulter with deepening her understanding of relationship-building's importance in spreading faith: “The relationships we build with others...is what spread the Catholic faith so rapidly in the early years of the Church.”

In announcing her retirement plans through a note in the HFP bulletin, Davidson described working at Holy Family Parish as "a soul-fulfilling experience." While looking forward to personal pursuits post-retirement—like travel and home projects—she acknowledges moving on will be challenging but trusts enduring relationships will remain intact.

“Working for God through the Catholic Church by serving Holy Family Parish has been a soul-fulfilling experience,” she wrote about her ministry role beyond mere employment duties.

Davidson fondly recalls many memories while expressing gratitude for divine guidance throughout her journey: “He’s always been there for me and I know he always will be.”