Front and center

Get to know assistant receptionist Karen Brooks

Receptionist Jennifer Garvey’s smiling face and bright voice greet those who walk in the office doors or call the church on most days. Jennifer is the daily point person, the connector of all comings and goings. Don’t fret; she’s not going anywhere, but even Jennifer needs to get away sometimes.

When Jennifer isn’t available to cover the front desk, someone else steps up to lend support and helps manage the flurry of activity that flows through the office. That’s where Karen Brooks comes in. On Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Karen holds down the fort so Jennifer can attend the weekly staff meeting and covers other days throughout the year so Jennifer can enjoy a little rest, relaxation, and family time.

Karen and her husband Bob joined St. Paul in July 2021. She is a retired English teacher, teaching at Annawan Schools, and an avid reader, referring to herself as a “book fanatic.” It doesn’t hurt that the word ‘books’ is right there in her last name. If she’s not answering phones, helping staff, writing cards, or any of the miscellany that comes with her role, Karen can be found reading. Each week, a new book sits on the front desk alongside Karen.

“I’ve loved reading and writing my entire life. It was always the thing that lit me up inside. I also loved teaching. I liked the kids and helping them to understand all kinds of new things,” Karen said. “Shakespeare was a favorite subject to teach. At first, the kids couldn’t understand what was being said but once they got into it, it clicked!”

Karen’s role stretches beyond the main office. She is a reader and editor of the Journey magazine and will begin her time as a contributing writer for Journey this year.

“When I retired, I tried several different types of work and after a while, I’d find myself losing interest. I’ve always needed an activity to take part in, even just a little bit each week. I enjoy coming to work at St. Paul, talking to nice people, and helping out in any way I can,” Karen said. “The friendliness of St. Paul people and getting to know them better are my favorite part. There aren’t many churches like St. Paul. We love our time here, and I’m glad to be part of the staff.”

Last year, Karen started a Substack account to chronicle bits of her life through humorous short stories, thoughtful poetry, and honest reflections. Substack is an online platform that allows users to self-publish their works and build an audience.

Her creativity expands beyond the written word and onto the stage. In 2023, Karen was the assistant director of the Quad City Music Guild’s production of Singin’ in the Rain and kept last year’s production of Fiddler on the Roof running smoothly as a member of the backstage crew. Karen also loves puzzles, knitting, and riding her bike, but her favorite activity is visiting her and Bob’s grandchildren.

Her husband Bob is a retired band director, specializing in trombone performance. He continues to play in many local bands including The Big River Brass Band, the Bettendorf Park Band, Bucktown Brass Quintet (alongside St. Paul member David Hope), and Quad City Wind Ensemble. Karen and Bob have four adult children between them with five grandchildren.
The next time you stop into the front office on a Wednesday morning, make sure to say hello to Karen!