Paul and Lisa (Coonfare) Gesterling

Where they served as FOCUS missionaries:

Lisa served at Loras College (Dubuque, IA) during the 2004-2006 school years. Before joining FOCUS, she was involved in FOCUS as a student at the University of Colorado (Boulder, CO).  Paul served at Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University (Bloomington-Normal, IL) during the 2004-2006 school years. Prior to joining staff, Paul was a FOCUS student leader at the University of Colorado (Boulder, CO). 

What they are up to now: 

The Gesterlings recently moved to Springfield IL. They are the proud parents of Eliette Clare.  Paul is pursuing his Masters degree in Public Administration at the University of Illinois Springfield. Lisa is taking some time off to spend with Eliette but plans on returning to school in order to complete a degree in nursing.

 How FOCUS impacted their lives:

"FOCUS exposed me to a whole new side of Catholicism that I never knew existed -- a young, vibrant, growing Church completely in love with Christ. Ever since then, I have never been the same. I have learned how to make my relationship with God my highest priority, and I look forward to teaching our children the beauty and love of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.  FOCUS equipped me with the foundation I need to remain Christ-centered in a secular environment. As a wife and a mother, I long to make my home a “cenacle where Jesus will reign over all.” My involvement with FOCUS gives me the tools to do so."  ~ Lisa Gesterling

 "FOCUS is the most difficult, the most intense and the most rewarding work experience I have ever had. It led me to my wife, taught me about true character and leadership, not as ideas, but as realities and awakened a spiritual life within me. It did all this while allowing me to fulfill the two greatest commandments, love of God and love of neighbor."  ~Paul Gesterling