No Greater Love: The Inspiring Story of Tom Vander Woude
About this Event
No Greater Love: The Inspiring Story of Tom Vander Woude
A father gave his life to save his son.
On September 8, 2008, Tom Vander Woude jumped into a septic tank to save his son Joseph, who had Down syndrome. Holding Joseph above the toxic fumes, Tom helped save his son's life but lost his own. His final words were:
"You pull, I'll push."
But Tom's story is about much more than one heroic moment.
He was a husband, father of seven, Navy pilot and veteran, commercial airline pilot, farmer, coach, mentor, and devoted Catholic whose life was marked by faith, generosity, humility, and sacrificial love. Those who knew him often say that his final act was simply the culmination of how he lived every day.
Join Chris Vander Woude, who is visiting Chicago from Virginia, as he shares the remarkable story of his father and reflects on faith, family, fatherhood, virtue, and the extraordinary impact that one life can have on countless others. Tom's witness has inspired families, Catholics, educators, specia needs advocates, veterans, and people from all walks of life across the country.
Today, the Diocese of Arlington in Virginia is examining Tom Vander Woude's life and virtues as part of the early stages of the Catholic Church's process for considering candidates for sainthood.
Schedule
5:30 PM — Optional Mass (in the beautiful upper church)
6:15 PM — Fellowship & Refreshments (lower level Museum Room)
7:00 PM — Presentation by Chris Vander Woude
Location
St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church
1810 N Hermitage Ave
Chicago, IL
Admission
Free admission. Registration requested by not required.
For families, young adults, and anyone seeking inspiration.
Agenda
🕑: 05:30 PM - 06:15 PM
Catholic Mass (Optional)
🕑: 06:15 PM - 07:00 PM
Food & Fellowship
🕑: 07:00 PM
Presentation: Inspiring Story of Tom Vander Woude
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
