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Comedy is the relief of life. But sometimes it is more tragic or destructive than up building. Comedy that is refreshing and enjoyable, clean and respectful, while at the same time leading people into a better understanding of their faith relationship with God and one another is very rare today. However, Judy McDonald has developed a routine that is truly a blessing and a gift. Her personal journey of faith is evident as she brings people into the joy of laughter. What a great witness using a very human medium: laughter.
Bishop Sam Jacobs
Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux, Louisiana
"That Judy McDonald is a clever soul! I would let her walk my dog, water my plants, guest speak at an event AND TELL MY TEENAGE DAUGHTERS WHAT IS IMPORTANT IN LIFE! She would tell them about Jesus, about the Catholic faith and the importance of both. She is funny. Actually, she is very funny. And she gets people laughing, all the while telling everyone in the room that a life of faith is the only real "life" there is! I have seen her many times. She is always very "on" and is able to reach the variety of ages present. Judy is also an "original": Catholic, female, ministerial minded and a comic. How many people do what she does? Thus the gift and the need for the gift. Blessings on Judy and her ministry of joy, truth and the healing gift of laughter!"
Tom Booth
"It has been my pleasure to work with Judy McDonald at several different venues around the country. Not only does she bring a great sense of humor with her ministry but also provides a powerful heartfelt message about the importance of being a Woman of God in the midst of a world that seeks to degrade women. Judy is funny and her humor is refreshingly clean and suited for families. It is great to have a Catholic Comedian among the Churches resources."
Deacon Ralph Poyo
Founder of New Evangelization Ministries
Steubenville, Ohio
Dear Friends in Ministry!
I am writing to give my recommendation for Judy McDonald. It is part of our mission to spread joy. Young people today need to know that although the journey with the Lord will be filled with sacrifice, it is also a joy filled journey. Before becoming Catholic, I would periodically go to local comedy clubs to be with friends and hear some jokes. Most of the time those jokes were inappropriate. I thought for a while that the only comedy that was funny had to be crude or sarcastic. After a while and as I grew closer to the Lord, I stopped going to the comedy clubs to guard my holiness.
The past couple of years my love for comedy has been reinvigorated by comedians like Brian Regan, Life Teen's Mark Hart and Judy McDonald. Judy is one of the funniest people I have ever met and doesn't use crude or offensive means to make you laugh. She combines humor and a spirit of service to every event she participates in. The great thing about Judy is that she has a deep faith life as well and with every joke there is a purpose that is opening up young people through laughter that leads to the Lord working through Judy to deliver God's message of love for us all.
Randy Raus
Life Teen President / CEO
Judy is particularly adept at engaging young people through humor while speaking to the importance of living a virtuous life. In 30-60 minutes she can enter into relationship with an audience to such a degree that by the end of the session they have a desire to know her and want to talk to her.
I was blown away by Judy’s ability to read the audience and speak to their needs. Her humor is full of wit and timing. Judy is professional, genuinely joy-filled and a superb presenter. Her rating on our event evaluations was unusually high. In fact, our teens want her back for the next event. With absolute confidence, I highly recommend Judy for your next youth, adult leader and/or parent related event.
Ray Hollcraft, Diocese of Crookston
"Judy McDonald is a super funny talented woman of God who is using her gift of seeing the humor in life to build up the body of Christ. Her humor is only surpassed by her deep desire to see people of all ages come to know Christ in a deeper way. Not only that, but she's a snappy dresser; and she likes aquatic aerobics." :)
Matt Maher
I had the chance to see Judy work with a group of American teens in Germany. I like to think I do a decent job of engaging teens but I was really blown away by how Judy used humor to get the teens into things...and then delivered a strong faith testimony and Catholic "punch line." She was fabulous off-stage, being funny but also being a great model for teens to talk with about deeper issues.
What impressed me more was her true self-work in her faith...spiritual direction, sacraments, reading. That tells me this is a ministry and not a performance. Her professional polish is not what she is about when working with teens...it is humor used to get to faith issues and she is VERY good indeed. I enjoy hearing her, watching her work and learning from her.
Mike Patin
Judy is the real deal! She is the kind of person that can convey the heart of Jesus with a powerful laugh. Judy's humor is infectious and effective. She delivers the Catholic faith in a high energy openness that makes you want more. I love the vulnerability she allows us to enjoy. This attribute is the mark of a real believer.
Paul S. Lunsford
Carmel, IN
In a time when the Catholic and non-Catholic Christian Church is in need of solid women role models, comedian Judy McDonald is a shining star in a sea of many. Her passion for her faith and sharing it with others is contagious. Judy's comedy brings in the gift of laughter with the bold Truth of the gospel to challenge young and old to pursue a day to day relationship with our Living God.
Judy headlined Saturday evening events at the European Catholic Youth Conference in Cologne, Germany August 2006. Over 250 American military youth, parents, young adults, youth ministers, director of religious education, and military chaplains participated in the event. Because of the success of Judy's sincere faith and humorous approach military bases in Naples, Italy, Grafenwoehr, Germany, Heidelberg, Germany, Ansbach, Germany and also Military Community Youth Ministries Europe Winter Staff conference hosted community events headlining Judy McDonald. Judy's second European tour reaching our American military in Europe will take place Fall 2007.
Peace and grace,
Marlo Daniels, Contractor MCYM
Judy has a very quick wit and amazing sense of humor. Her comedy is insightful without being irreverent and pointed without being negative. Judy's love of making people laugh is only overshadowed by her love for God and her Catholic faith. She is a true talent.
Mark Hart
Vice President, Life Teen
The Office of Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Arlington hired Judy for their annual high school RALLY in 2006. She was eager to come to the East Coast and was easy to work with. She was an instant hit with the teens who attended the high-energized opening session of RALLY last October. Judy was genuine, honest and easy-going in her speaking to the youth. Everyone, including the adults & youth leaders in the gym, was left holding their sides in laughter!
I've seen and witnessed Judy's performances at many Steubenville conferences and Life Teen Inspirations events from the West Coast. Many of the teens had not heard of her, but after seeing and hearing her talk, want her back for more! Unlike many comedians, Judy uses clean and appropriate language. Her strong Catholic faith background helps her deliver many humorous and entertaining stories.
I would highly recommend Judy for any middle school or high school event.
Kevin Flores
Office of Youth Ministry, Diocese of Arlington, VA
Dear Judy,
Thank you so much for being the keynote speaker at our LifeTeen graduation banquet honoring our seniors and their families. We couldn't have chosen a better or more fun way to honor them for their accomplishments than you and the terrific sense of humor you use to point out how God works in all of our lives.
As you know, it is at this graduation banquet that our incoming freshmen get their first taste of LifeTeen. Your presentation and the ensuing hilarity helped put them at ease and build their excitement about their transition into high school at the same time. Without exception from the Knights of Columbus who were on hand to award scholarships, to the clergy, parents and teens themselveseveryone enjoyed the night immensely.
God has blessed you with the gift of joy and we, in turn, are blessed by your willingness to share it. May those blessings return to you tenfold.
Sincerely,
Heidi Clark
St. Paul Catholic Community
Director of Adult Ministry
Houston, Texas
Our Lady of the Assumption held a fund raiser for our Life Teen program. It was a wonderful event that featured a Magician and Comedian. I have heard Judy on many occasions and new in my heart she would do a marvelous performance and she certainly was a huge success. She was funny and inspiring. Comedy is difficult especially with a mixed audience but her personal stories and deep abiding faith made it a fun time. She is heart warming and a great story teller. Her comedic timing is a gift. She has the ability to keep your attention as she weaves her personal travel stories through her act. She was definitely a hit with the crowd. I highly recommend Judy McDonald if you are looking for an outstanding Catholic comedian. She is a blessing to us.
Fr. Steve Davoren
Pastor
Our Lady of the Assumption Parish
Ventura, California
Often during parish council meetings the topic of building a sense of community in the parish comes to discussion. The discussion usually heads in the direction of providing Adult Faith formation, bringing in outside speakers to speak on social justice issues, or talking about parish retreats. All of these ideas provide good opportunities to build community. However, what about inviting people together, to simply enjoy an evening as Catholics to laugh.
Judy McDonald provided such an evening for us here at Our Lady of the Lake in Lake Oswego, Or. We decided to use our usual Youth Night and invite members of the whole parish to gather for a fun evening. Parishioners of all ages attended, and Judy's performance had the people in stitches. She was incredibly engaging and was able to reach all age groups present. I saw married couples making an evening out of it, Families laughing together, teens busting up with their friends. In short, we all enjoyed just being together.
Feedback from those who attended I will summarize; Thank you father for inviting Judy. It was so fun. She cracked me up. It is nice to gather for fun every once in a while. When will you invite her back? Thank you Judy and blessings on your ministry.
Rev. Sean Weeks
Parochial Vicar
Our Lady of the Lake Parish
Lake Oswego, Or.
Judy performed at a weekend youth retreat at our parish for 800 teens. As a pastor, I had concerns about an appropriate mix of comedy and our Catholic faith, as I have seen too many comedians use their comedy as an opportunity to be sacrilegious. In Judy's case, my concern was unnecessary. Judy was hilarious and appropriate with our teens. When she made us laugh, it was like she was dropping bombs as an outsider! It was more like, "Hey, I am Catholic. I LOVE being Catholic and this is what we do that makes me laugh as a Catholic." I also liked the fact that Judy used her talent as a comedian to evangelize! What a great example for teens.
Fr. Richard Doerr, Pastor
Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church
Carmel, IN
"In a culture where humor is practically synonymous with vulgarity or cruelty, Judy McDonald comes onto the scene as a much welcomed relief. She is not only brilliantly funny, she brings a certain inspiration and edification that left us all reflecting a long time after the show ended."
Fr. David Meconi, S.J.
Department of Theological Studies
St. Louis University
In the summer of 2006 I had Judy do a comedy night for my parish. She was hilarious. All ages very much enjoyed her and we easily related to the Christian Comedy she ministered to us with. A few weeks after the events one of our youth told me that she had bought Judy's CD and memorized all of it. They say that imitation is the highest form of compliment and Judy is well worth being imitated. Her prayerful and humorous spirit is slaking the need for healing in our church. Have her come to you soon!
Fr. John Amsberry
Pastor
St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church
Portland, OR
.
Judy,
I want to thank you for the excellent night of comedy you gave us for the Frank J. Lewis Institute held here at USD. As you could tell from the audience reaction, you were a tremendous hit. I was amazed that you could
sustain the pace for almost a full hour -- after which I was exhausted from laughing so hard.
Three things really stood out for me. First was your obvious faith. While you didn't preach or even give a testimony, it was clear that your faith is alive and real, and that you are committed to Christ's church. Second, you had a wonderful way of getting us to laugh at ourselves -- at our pretensions and our "churchy" ways. It is good to be able to stop and take a look at ourselves as ministers -- doing so through your comedy actually made it fun. Finally, the way that you "worked the audience" was hilarious. Your ad libs and your feeding off the things people said added a personal touch to the night, and made the night even more funny.
Thanks again for the night. I have recommended you to some national professional organizations that I belong to.
God bless,
Mike McIntyre
Catholic Campus Minister Association - Frank J. Lewis Institute
Dear Judy,
My name is Jenny Goldstein and I am the Director of Youth Ministry at St. Mary Magdalene. I attended the Steubenville San Diego Youth Conference this summer, and had the pleasure of seeing your comedy show. My teens are still talking about it!
How refreshing to see a Christian comedian use their talents in a positive and energetic way. There are so few people who have the gift to entertain teens while keeping it pure, clean, and really funny! As a leader in the Church, we are constantly at war with the secular world in attempts to entertain teens. I want to thank you for exposing our teens to your show, and providing them with hysterical humor. I know my group would be thrilled to see you again.
Thank you for being real and sharing your gift of comedy!
Jenny Goldstein
Director of Youth Ministry
St. Mary Magdalene
San Diego, California
Humor is not just for the secular world. The Church needs a laugh every now and then too. Judy provides that opportunity in a way that transcends age and culture. With comedy and a masterful use of media Judy gives us a healthy opportunity to reflect on the weirdness of everyday life, to laugh at ourselves, and to find faith in the midst of hilarity.
Fr. Tim Hepburn
"Judy is an incredibly funny young woman who lives her Catholic faith daily and shares it with others through her comedy. Her humor will keep you laughing as you pleasantly realize how appropriate and "clean" it is. Judy's unique style works for every age group and in every situation.
You may have attended scripted comedy acts before but they pale in comparison to Judy's fresh improvisational stylings."
Deacon Ron & Rae Arnold
St. Francis of Assisi Parish
Vista, California
Judy McDonald is a true gift to the Body of Christ. I have known her for a few days, I mean years, and have enjoyed watching her love for Christ touch so many lives. She is brilliant, witty, spiritual and full of joy. What I love about Judy's ministry is her willingness to find a place for laughter in every part of our humanity. You will be a better person for including her in your life!
Chris Padgett
songwriter, musician, speaker and worship leader
Steubenville, Ohio
Comedy is serious business and Judy is seriously funny. If you are
trying to bring together a room, laughter is the quickest way to do it.
Judy puts a room at ease with her humor and great timing. Her years as
a Jr High youth minister has prepared her for most any situation. Judy
is easy to work with and always professional. But the best thing about
Judy is her heart. She loves Jesus and her Catholic faith is her
strength. She is one of the most requested speakers we have and it is
easy to see why.
Bob Schirmpf
CEO Totus Pro Deo
San Diego, California
Judy McDonald is one of the funniest women in comedy, period. She grabs her audience and can capture their attention the entire time she is on stage. This past spring she helped lead Catholic Youth Day in Anaheim, an event attended by 14,000 Catholics, primarily high school teenagers, but also a wide variety of adults ages 18-88. Her humor, flexibility, and spirituality made her a great host for the event, and helped make it one of the most highly rated events ever done with the Los Angeles Archdiocese.
Her style makes her a natural on any comedy stage, but it's her spirituality that sets her apart from anyone else I know. She appeals to all races, ages, genders, because she touches upon such universal issues that are easy to relate to. ---
Adolfo Nunez
Diocese of Los Angeles
Opened act for:
Paula Poundstone, Mitch Hedberg, Mark Curry, Caroline Rhea, Wendy Lieberman, Mitch Mullany
International:
Bitburg, GERMANY, Derrybeg, IRELAND, Letterkenny, IRELAND, Vincenza, ITALY, Naples, ITALY, Mildenhall Airforce Base, England, NATO- Brussels, BELGIUM, Heidelberg High School Club - GERMANY, Vilseck/Graf High School Club - GERMANY, Katterbach Community Event - GERMANY,
Naples Community Event - ITALY, MCYM Mid-Winter Conference Garmisch, GERMANY
Corporate- Conferences:
Cal-A-Vie Spa Havens, Vista Valley Country, Club Frank J. Lewis Conference, Steubenville San Diego, St. Francis Parish, Shazenbach Real Estate, St. Gregory the Great , People One Software, Casa de Amparo, Encinitas Education Foundation, Escondido Humane Society, Life Teen of the Rockies, Michelle's Place, Life Teen Alhambra, Federation of Catholic University Students, April 17 Trained To Serve Conference, Carlsbad, CALIFORNIA, SCRC, July 11-13 St. Isaac Jogues Youth Conference - NEW YORK, Steubenville West, Tucson, ARIZONA, National Catholic Youth Conference, NCYMA, Catholic Campus Ministers Association, Los Angeles Youth Day- CALIFORNIA
Parishes and Diocese:
Meridian, IDAHO, Old Mission Santa Inés -Solvang, CALIFORNIA, LA Youth Day - Anaheim, CALIFORNIA, Fairfax,VIRGINIA, Monrovia,CALIFORNIA Utica, NEW YORK, Corpus Christi Parish -Bonita, CALIFORNIA,Holy Family Parish, Caledonia, MICHIGANSt. Tim's, Mesa, ARIZONA, The Gathering Youth Ministry La, Jolla, CALIFORNIA, St. Joseph the Worker, Portland, OREGONSan Rafael - Rancho Bernardo, CALIFORNIA Diocese of Lafayette, INDIANA, Diocese of Houston, TEXAS, Diocese of Corpus Christi- TEXASDiocese of Santa Barbara, CALIFORNIA, Our Lady of the Lake Parish - Lake Oswego OREGON Our Lady of the Assumption Parish - Ventura, CALIFORNIA, St. Stephen Parish - Valley Center, CALIFORNIA, Mission San Luis Rey - Oceanside, CALIFORNIA, Diocese of St. Petersburg, FLORIDA, St. Ambrose Church - Latham, NEW YORK, Resurrection Parish- Escondido, CALIFORNIA, Garland, TEXAS, St. Anne's, Dallas, TEXAS, Redondo Beach, CA, St. Raphaels,Oshkosh WISCONSIN, Parish Mission St Peter's Utica, NEW YORK, Diocese of Crookston, MINNESOTA
Schools and Universities:
San Diego State University, University of San Diego, Franciscan University, Zion Lutheran, University California San Diego, Gannon University - PENNSYLVANIA, UC Irvine,
Clubs:
The Comedy and Magic Club, Hermosa Beach, The Comedy Store, Hollywood, CA The Comedy Store, La Jolla, CA The Ice House, Pasadena, Ca Shelter Point Hotel, Point Loma, CA The Comedy Grill, San Diego, CA Aromas, San Diego, CA , Hennesey's, Carlsbad, CA, Red Rocks, CO
Television:
The Dennis Miller Show (CNBC 11/05/04)
The Weather Channel 2006
EWTN 2008 (Sarah Bauer Vocations series)
