Hello, my name is Rachael McDonald, and I am truly honored to serve as your Administrative Assistant for the Lake Huron Family of Parishes.
Professionally, I bring a diverse range of experience, including serving as a homestay guardian for teenage students and as the Homestay Director for International Student Guardianship Canada in Toronto. Before that, I spent five years as a Virtual Assistant, supporting small businesses so they could focus on their priorities. In 2020, I relocated to Grand Bend, drawn by its breathtaking sunsets and tranquil surroundings—a place I am now blessed to call home.
A bit about my personal journey: While helping my mother relocate from British Columbia to England, she gifted me a package of photos documenting the many places I’ve lived. To my surprise, I discovered I’ve moved 20 times! Here’s the condensed version: I was born in London, England, moved to Jamaica at age one, and by age five, we were in British Columbia, Canada. From there, life took me to Zimbabwe, back to England, and then across the ocean to Ontario. Before settling in Grand Bend, I lived in Milton for 10 years.
Travel has been a constant in my life, and each place I’ve called home holds a special place in my heart. Family, however, has always been at the center of my journey. My travels are often about visiting loved ones rather than typical vacations. For anyone who knows the challenges of being far from family—especially during the pandemic or other life challenges—I want to share a special prayer, passed down through my family, that has brought me comfort.
When people ask, “Where is home?” my answer is, “Home is where my heart is,” because it’s hard to choose a favorite place or even the one I’ve stayed the longest! My spiritual journey has mirrored my travels, taking a few detours along the way. After returning to the Church last year, I’ve experienced a beautiful homecoming that fills me with gratitude and joy.
Thank you for welcoming me into this warm and vibrant community. I am excited to serve as your Office Administrator and humbly ask for your patience as I continue to learn the ropes. It is truly a blessing to be here, and I look forward to growing together in faith and service.