Simon’s work as coordinator of social ministries was profiled April 30 in The Star’s 816 newsmagazine. The article highlighted Troost Avenue — its history and the many interesting people dedicated to its vibrancy today.Simon was responsible for delivering 2,000 pounds of food for the church's food pantry.
Colleen Simon and her wife, the Rev. Donna Simon of St. Mark Hope and Peace Lutheran Church, were mentioned deep in the story, along with the fact that they are a married couple.
The freelance writer didn’t intend to out the couple. They bear no grudge to her, nor to the priest currently serving St. Francis. The Simons have never hidden their marriage (in Iowa on May 19, 2012).
Rather, Colleen Simon kept a don’t-ask, don’t-flaunt attitude. She said she told the pastor who hired her in July 2013 (he is no longer at the parish) of her marriage. But day to day, she avoided pronouns that would highlight it, substituting “my spouse” or “my beloved."
She is 58-years-old and trying to keep on top of old medical bills from when she was being treated for non-Hodgkin's lymphomoa. Now she finds herself struggling to find a new job in the midst of an economic recession.
Interestingly, her name is still on the church's website (as of 05/17/14), though all information has been scrubbed.