Each year, our Archdiocese asks each parish to nominate a woman and youth to be named Woman and Youth of the Year of that parish. They are all honored at a special Mass celebrated by our archbishop. This year the Mass will be held at Saint Jude on Saturday, March 7, at 10:00 am.
Congratulations to the Saint Jude Woman and Youth of the Year for 2026!
Liz Schantz
We are proud to announce Liz Schantz as our Saint Jude Woman of the Year!
A native of Brooklyn, New York, Liz has called Georgia home for more than 30 years. She and her husband, Deacon Gary, have been faithful members of Saint Jude the Apostle for over a decade, having previously belonged to St. Andrew’s. Together, they are blessed with three children—Katie Baier, Matt Schantz, and Sarah Wolcott and her husband, TJ—and while there are no grandchildren just yet, they love their beloved “granddogs”.
Liz’s heart for service is evident throughout our parish community. She is actively involved in Choir, Pray Them Home, Helping Hands, Linen Angels, and Creation Care. She is also a member of Serra Atlanta and the Christ Child Society. In addition, she generously volunteered for many years at Holy Redeemer when her children were students there—and even for several years after they graduated.
Choir and liturgy hold a special place in Liz’s heart, and she is always willing to step in wherever there is a need. Her joyful spirit, generous service, and deep love for the Church beautifully reflect the mission of Saint Jude. Congratulations, Liz!
Anna Duffy
Congratulations to Anna Duffy, our Saint Jude Youth of the Year!
Anna is the daughter of Kevin and Meg Duffy, and she and her family have been parishioners of Saint Jude the Apostle for more than eight years, joining the parish when they moved to Atlanta in the summer of 2017. Throughout her time at Saint Jude, Anna has generously shared her time and talents in service to our spiritual home.
Here at the parish, Anna is an active member of the Altar Servers Guild and participates in Life Teen. She also serves as a teen worker with the Catholic Metro League of Atlanta. Her joyful presence and willingness to serve have made a meaningful impact on our parish family.
Anna is a senior at Marist School, where she is involved in the Environmental Club, Share the Journey, and various community service initiatives. She is dedicated to caring for others and for God’s creation.
Anna will attend High Point University, where she plans to row and study veterinary and animal science. We are grateful for her years of service and look forward to seeing all she accomplishes. Congratulations, Anna!