Meet Our Staff

Rev. James Donovan, Pastor

Fr. Donovan has been a priest since 1987.  Fr. Donovan was previously assigned to Our Lady of Loretto in Hometown. Fr. Jim was elected by priests to serve as secretary of priest placement from 2008-2013. Cardinal George appointed Fr. Jim as Vicar for priest in July 2013. He kiddingly states:  "My ministry began in Waukegan and I have been moving south ever since! I am a proud Cub fan doing mission work on the South Side of Chicago. Sometimes it is lonely-- thank God for golf!"  Fr. Donovan asks that you pray for the many great priests of this local church; those of your youth and of all your different ages.

Patrick McGowan, Director of Faith Formation

Patrick administers the Religious Education program for Preschool-8th grade, including the recruiting and formation of catechists. He helps families grow in faith. He is responsible for Sacramental formation for Eucharist, Confirmation and Reconciliation for all families. For the school, Patrick prepares and coordinates school liturgies and prayer services working with students and teachers. Patrick is a member of the RCIA team and coordinates the children’s catechumenate, and is the staff liaison to Parish Council and SPRED.

Elisabeth McNamara, Business Manager

Elisabeth administers all of the business aspects of maintaining the physical plant and managing parish operations including human resources, benefits, technology, finance and investments, budgets, accounting and payroll. She works closely with the Finance Board, Physical Resource Committee, Endowment Foundation, Stewardship, and Grant-in-Aid.

Geri Doherty, Parish Secretary

When you call St. Barnabas rectory, the friendly voice you are likely to hear is that of Geri Doherty. Geri is responsible for general questions and information. She updates the parish website and creates the parish bulletin. She also is in charge of the scheduling for all facilities on the parish grounds.

Lia Goyer, Communications and Stewardship Coordinator

Lia will be working with all parish ministries to align communication and marketing strategies. You can also look forward to getting her weekly e-blasts, website and bulletin updates to keep you better informed on what is happening in the Parish.

Cindy Wirtz, Rectory Coordinator

Cindy works in the rectory keeping the kitchen well stocked, preparing delicious evening meals for the resident priests, and planning events.

Alexandre Tsomaia, Director of Music

Alexandre (Sandro) is an internationally acclaimed musician who performs across the country and abroad. He serves as our full time accompanist at all parish liturgies, school liturgies, funerals, weddings, as well as at many special services and parish events.