• :: News
  • :: Hudson-Litchfield
  • :: Pelham-Windham
  • :: Salem
  • :: Archives
• :: Sports
  • :: Hudson-Litchfield
  • :: Pelham-Windham
  • :: Salem
• :: People in the News
  • :: Hudson-Litchfield
  • :: Pelham-Windham
• :: Logs
  • :: Fire
  • :: Police
• :: Weddings & Engagements
• :: Obituaries
• :: Area News Group
  • :: Contests
  • :: Contacts
  • :: Advertising

Jack Cantara

by Stephanie J. Serrano

A faithful servant, selflessly devoting his time to others - best describes Jack Cantara.

Born in Nashua, Cantara spent his young adult years working for his father’s business, Jerry’s Radio and TV Service in Nashua. During his high school years, he attended New Hampshire Technical Institute, where he completed various business courses. Shortly after high school graduation, Cantara joined the US Army.

During his enlistment period, Cantara was sent overseas to help complete two military assignments: one in Austria and one in Italy. As Staff Sergeant, Cantara’s mission was to oversee the communications for an engineering battalion. While serving in the military, he completed six months of schooling in field radio repair.

He and his wife moved to Hudson in 1957. After raising their six children, Cantara began seeking volunteer opportunities around town. In particular, Cantara has committed much of his time and energy to his town parish - St. John the Evangelist.

Some of the positions he has held within his parish include CCD teacher and church lector.

“When I saw retirement coming, I thought I probably had one good ministry left in me. I enjoy coordinating programs, and making them run,” he adds.

Cantara is the Coordinator at St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. John The Evangelist. There, he works to meet the ministering needs of the financially burdened. He’s been involved with the organization for seven years.

Serving both the Hudson and Litchfield community, the St. Vincent de Paul organization makes regular food distributions two times each month.

“We’re always open for emergency calls, and if somebody calls the rectory, we’ll open the pantry and take care of them,” says Cantara. Presently, this ministry provides for an average of 35 families per month.

“Sometimes they just need a shoulder to cry or lean on.” He explains that often times, somebody will come in for advice, or referrals for medical or dental services. “Our parish and community at large is very supportive,” he adds.

The enthusiasm and willingness on the part of his 20 volunteers is commendable. “I really enjoy planning and coordinating the efforts of these many dedicated people.”

Cantara has witnessed the generosity of individuals, small and large businesses, town groups, etc. from the Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club, Snow-Men’s Club, Girl Scouts and Post Office. These are just a few of the generous organizations that are committed to making sure the needy are cared for.

Although the Saint Vincent de Paul is currently able to meet their food commitment needs, Cantara says, “We’re not overflowing by any means.” He explains that the organization will provide through food certificates and what’s available on the shelves. He says, “We’ll probably squeak through all right until the fall.” However, contributions are always welcome.

If you are interested in making a donation to St. Vincent de Paul, please call the parish rectory at 882-3603.