World’s top golfer swings by St. Joan

As one of the most enthusiastic golfers in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Father Samuel Young was more than a bit excited to see Lorena Ochoa, the number-one women’s golfer in the world, sitting in a pew at St. Joan of Arc, Aberdeen, before the 8:30 a.m. Sunday Mass, June 10.

Ms. Ochoa was in Harford County to participate in the McDonald’s LPGA Championship at the Bulle Rock golf course in Havre de Grace. Although she didn’t claim the championship, Father Young called the famous duffer a winner for her commitment to her faith.

“I was really impressed that here’s the best player in the world coming to Mass on a championship day when she could have spent that hour practicing,” said Father Young. “She stayed for the entire liturgy. It was a great witness to me.”

Father Young said he had the chance to watch Ms. Ochoa compete on the golf course. He plans to write her a letter thanking her for her faithfulness and letting her know she is always welcome at St. Joan.