Adam Rosinski SJ
Day 6: December 4 Reflector: Fr. Adam Rosinski, SJ Image Title: Adoration of the Shepherds by Matthias Stom “The Incarnation doesn’t give us a ladder to climb out of our human condition. The Incarnation gives us a drill that lets us burrow into the heart of everything that is and, there, find it shimmering with divinity.” – Avery Cardinal Dulles, SJ As we await the Christmas light that pierces the darkness, we can sometimes be tempted to look up and away, as if for some great heavenly spotlight to shine on us from a distance. However, the great message of…
Andrew Del Rossi, ThD
Andrew Del Rossi, ThD, has served as a theology teacher, service-learning educator, campus minister, non-profit operator, and palliative care consultant for alternative and holistic therapies. He is currently the Director of the Spirituality and Retreat Center at Daylesford Abbey in Paoli, PA and is publishing and presenting on Teilhard, spirituality, and psychology. He is a board member of the American Teilhard Association, the editor of Teilhard Perspective, and host of the ATA Podcast. Andrew resides in Pennsylvania with his wife and their three children.
Andria Seneviratne
Andria Seneviratne (she/her) is a seeker whose mission is to open hearts and heal the fragmented relationships between ourselves, God, and each other. She is a sacred space holder with experience as a facilitator, spiritual companion, and strategy consultant. Andria’s work centers around tapping into our divine essence and returning to our compassionate, loving God by living into our full humanity in body, mind, and spirit. Andrea serves as a catalyst for deep change in each of her different roles. In her practice, she embraces her lived experience as an immigrant, woman, Asian American, athlete, and fellow traveler to support…
Anita Wood
Anita Wood is a spiritual director, who received her M. Ed. from Boston College and a Doctor of Ministry degree at Lancaster Theological Seminary. Her major project was on Teilhard de Chardin. Anita has had successive careers in teaching, religious education administration, retreat leadership, and spiritual direction. She is currently teaching in the spiritual director formation program with the Murphy Spirituality Center of Fairfield University. Prior to this, Anita was on the staff of the Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth in Wernersville, PA, offering spiritual direction and retreats. Anita has used her doctoral work centered on Teilhard de Chardin to…
Anne Montgomery Schmid
Anne is the founder of Encircled Grace and a Veriditas Certified Labyrinth Facilitator. Feeling a natural call to the labyrinth, Anne’s journey has taken her to training with Lauren Artress, an internationally known spokeswoman in the labyrinth community, walking labyrinths as she travels to all 50 states, and sharing her gifts with diverse communities. Anne brings her calm presence, engaging storytelling, and labyrinth knowledge to all those seeking this contemplative practice. Offering safe, nonjudgmental space, Anne facilitates meditative walks for generational groups and individuals, conducts custom workshops and events for organizations, and serves as a guest speaker for religious and…
Becky McIntyre
Becky McIntyre is a community visual artist and muralist in Philadelphia. Her work, often collective in nature, is deeply inspired by the Spirit and brings awareness to sociopolitical issues, the transformative and healing nature of art, and activating and inspiring new ways of being. A graduate of St. Joseph’s University, Becky is the visual artist for the Synodality in Catholic Higher Education in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia project. In addition to various communal art projects and commissions, Becky is a Catholic Worker artists and regularly creates the cover art for the Los Angeles Catholic Worker Catholic Agitator newspaper. IG: @sanaartista…
Bethany Welch
Day 14: December 12 Reflector: Bethany Welch @thewayofdelight Image Title: Preparations December 12th marks the memorial of Our Lady of Guadalupe, who was named Patroness of the Americas by Pope John Paul II in 1999. I was first introduced to this Marian apparition when I volunteered in a Latino community in North Philadelphia. A devotion to “La Virgen” grew in my own heart as I saw her image appear over and over again in the lives of those who needed her fierce accompaniment and compassionate intercession. When I later served in a parish with a large Mexican community, I was…
Brother Mickey McGrath, OSFS
Brother Mickey McGrath is an artist, author, story-teller, and retreat director who currently lives and works in Camden, NJ. A native of Philadelphia, Brother Mickey has been a member of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales for forty-seven years. After receiving his MFA in Painting from the American University in Washington, DC, he worked as a professor of art at DeSales University in Center Valley, PA. Since 1994, he has been pursuing his ministry of art full time. He has published more than twenty award-winning books has just been received a First Place Award from the Association of Catholic…
Buff Barnes
Buff has been offering spiritual direction to individuals and groups since 2004. She completed a certificate training at Oasis Ministries in Camp Hill, PA, and subsequently completed a Master’s degree in Holistic Spirituality and Spiritual Direction at Chestnut Hill College. Buff is part of the spiritual direction ministry at Wayne Presbyterian Church and St. David’s Episcopal Church, both in Wayne. She also offers spiritual direction to folks at Salt & Light Church in southwest Philadelphia. In spiritual direction sessions, she is continually amazed at the ways the Holy Spirit meets folks where they are, blessing them with new insights and…
Catherine Kirwan-Avila, ACJ
Day 26: December 24 Reflector: Catherine Kirwan-Avila, ACJ Image Title: God’s Labor Image Source: Allison Bradbury, Smithsonian Magazine “It was I…” when our imagination gives out, God continues laboring, opening pathways of life. God, who assures us that, even if we fail to see, the Faithful One’s vision is clear. God who chooses such funny building materials for salvation: weakness and mundanity, babies and outcasts, failure and forgiveness, promises, friendship and bread. The only thing unusual about these elements seems to be the subversive, hidden power with which they are imbued. Who would dream up salvation by way…
ChanMi Jung Pyles
Day 16: December 18 Reflector: ChanMi Jung Pyles Image Title: My Light and My Salvation With the extended and worsened pandemic situations, there are lots of worries, fears, weariness, fatigue, and anxieties on our minds and hearts lately (including mine). When will this end? What will happen to us? What more loss could I handle mentally? What if my loved ones with higher risk suffer from covid? What if we never go back to the “normal” I knew from before? . But God calls us to turn to Him in Isaiah 45:21-22. “Who announced this from the beginning and foretold…
Chelsea Wallace
Day 3: December 1 Reflector: Chelsea Wallace @echewallace Image Title: Childlike Trust These days, I spend many fretful moments in our side yard chasing after this little guy as he excitedly careens toward whatever new thing he has discovered that day. The joys of pine cones, a pile of rocks, and holiday inflatables have all caught his fancy; this day, he was captivated by the glorious red of the tree across the street. Like many, I have recently felt exhausted, disappointed, and frustrated by the challenges our country has been facing. This image resonates with the invitation I feel from…
Claire G.
Day 20: December 18 Reflector: Claire G. Image Title: Movement The gospel today ( MT 1:18-25) speaks of a dramatic shift in perspective from shame to joy. As we close this third week of advent in 2020, what are the invitations in our lives to shift our beliefs? God, make known to us the ways we can move closer to joy and farther from shame for ourselves and those around us. May we be ready to risk our ideas of “rightness” for the sake of growing in love. As we approach the shortest day, may we turn inward for a…
Danielle Critelli
I started taking classes at my neighborhood’s pottery studio in the summer of 2017, encouraged by a friend to explore creative outlets. It happened to be right before a major career transition, and weekly pottery classes became my place to zone out. It still continues to provide me space to listen inwardly and be okay with taking risks. I work primarily with slab-building, and love the freedom this tactic provides to shape clay into almost any shape or type of form. As a hand builder, I have to rely on trusting my hands to know the amount of pressure or…
Deacon David Schaffer, MA, MS
Deacon David Schaffer received his Master’s Degree in Pastoral Counseling from NeumannUniversity, and a Master’s in Religious Studies from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. He has extensive experience in counseling engaged and married couples through the Family Life Office of the Archdiocese. He has accompanied individuals for 30 years in parish ministry with RCIA and Pre-Cana, as well as directing programs and retreats at St. Raphaela Center. Deacon David, from his personal experience, has journeyed with many people in spiritual direction, with a particular gift for walking with others through the various aspects of grief and loss. Presently, he is in…
Eric Hollander
Eric Hollander is a musicologist, poet, violist, and community music facilitator. He has a BM in viola performance from The Boston Conservatory, an MA in Writing and Publishing from DePaul University, and a PhD in musicology from Brandeis University. Eric wonders about what music is and how it helps while searching for fuller understanding through phenomenological description and spiritual participation. As a poet and performer, Eric is an active member of the Haiga Duo, a spoken-word/viola/accordion ensemble and exercises his enthusiasm for amateur music making with various community, folk, and parish ensembles. As a musicologist, Eric writes and presents on…
Erik Ranstrom, PH.D
Erik is a reputable spiritual director with a certificate in spiritual direction from the Center for Ignatian Spirituality at Fairfield University. He also holds a Ph.D. in theology from Boston College. He brings together careful, intellectual reflection and inner, intuitive discernment to support retreatants and directees’ spiritual journeys. Whether you have a formal religious affiliation or identify as a seeker along various paths, Erik believes that the mystery of God is beckoning you to the fullness of joy and loving service of others in the midst of the struggles of life. Having worked in higher education for over a decade,…
Flannery O'Connor
Day 11: December 9 Reflector: Flannery O’Connor Image Title: Wonder Image Source: Iggy deSantos In today’s first reading, we hear: “Though young men faint and grow weary, and youths stagger and fall; They that hope in the LORD will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint” (Is 40: 30-31). This year there have been many times to lose hope, to give up. But, God reminds us to keep the faith, to not grow weary, to open our arms wide ready to embrace the beauty…
Fr. Dan Joyce, SJ
Dan Joyce, S.J. is the Vice President of Mission and Ministry at Saint Joseph’s University. He also serves as the Director of the Alliance for Catholic Education at Saint Joseph’s University education fellows program and as an adjunct professor in the theology and religious studies department. Over the last 30 years Dan has worked with communities on educational and economic issues in various cities in the U.S. and Central America.
Fr. Frank Kaminski, SJ
Fr. Frank Kaminski is a Jesuit priest and a member of the retreat staff at the St. Raphael Center in Haverford, PA. There he works jointly with other staff members offering Individually directed retreats, formation programs and spiritual direction in the Ignatian Tradition. Fr. Kaminski’s began to develop his interest in Ignatian spirituality during his years in Chile, where he worked for more than 10 years with the Christian Life Community (a world-wide community of lay men and women who follow the Ignatian path in their daily lives). Back in the United States, he joined the Jesuit Urban Service Team…
Fr. Jack Newns
Father Jack Newns is a spiritual guide for many who intentionally weaves imagery, symbolism and story into his preaching. He currently resides and ministers at St. Matthews Parish in Conshohocken.
Fr. Joe Schad, SJ
Joe Schad, SJ, is originally from South Philadelphia. He attended St. Joe’s Prep, where he first encountered the Jesuits. He graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), with a BFA in the graphic arts program. Afterwards, Fr. Joe spent most of a year discerning his vocation at a Trappist monastery in North Carolina. Following two years with Peace Corps, he worked in JVC as a crisis counselor. He entered the Society of Jesus 44 years ago and has just celebrated 33 years as a Jesuit priest. His formation studies were at Gonzaga and the Jesuit School of Theology (JSTB)…
Fr. Paolo Gamberini, SJ
Paolo Gamberini was born in Ravenna (Italy) in 1960 and entered the Jesuit Order in 1983. He earned his Master in Philosophy at the Sacred Heart University, in Milan. He studied Theology in Germany (Frankfurt/M and Tübingen) where he received his doctorate at the at the Jesuit School of Philosophy and Theology in Frankfurt, writing a doctoral dissertation on the concept of Analogy in the Theology of the Lutheran theologian – recently deceased – Eberhard Jüngel. He has been working since 1985 in the Ecumenical movement especially with Anglicans and Lutherans. From 1992 to 2014, he taught at the Pontifical…
Fr. Peter McIsaac, SJ
Fr. Peter McIsaac SJ is a Canadian-born Jesuit who has lived in Jamaica for the past twenty years where he ministered as pastor, teacher, director of theological school and formation programs for clergy and laity. After his term as regional Jesuit superior, he is now in full time spirituality ministry in the Eastern Caribbean and lives in Barbados. With a passion for the Spiritual Exercises and a particular interest in the various cultural expressions of faith, Father Peter has traveled the Caribbean, North America and to Southeast Asia giving retreats and spiritual Exercises while continuing his spiritual and theological formation…
Fr. Raymond Donaldson, SJ
Ray Donaldson, S.J., has been a member of the Society of Jesus for twenty-four years and a Jesuit priest for fourteen. He entered the Society after eleven years as a systems engineer working in telecommunications. As part of his Jesuit formation, he taught for two years in a public elementary school in a disadvantaged neighborhood in Charlotte, NC and completed two summer internship programs in spiritual direction. After ordination, Ray served for three years as a teacher at Gesu School in Philadelphia and for six years as pastor of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Durham, NC. He then completed his…
Fr. Bao Nguyen, SJ
Day 9: December 7 Reflector: Fr. Bao Nguyen, SJ Image Title: The Voice in the Wilderness The global pandemic has interrupted our practice in this Advent season and changed our human behaviors to unprecedented situation that we have never experienced before. Social distancing, no masks no services/Mass, staying at home, and robust hand hygiene become common warnings during these days with the surging rise of COVID-19 cases in the world. We have been socially paralyzed by danger of the invisible virus. We need to enter wilderness, the bottom of our heart to listen to the voice of God who can comfort…
Heather Makowicz
Day 1: November 29 Reflector: Heather Makowicz, Peak Encounter Ministries @_heathermakowicz_ @peakencounter Image Title: Stay awake…be alert…and stay aware… Image Source: Jeremy Bishop, Unsplash This Sunday, the first day of Advent, our readings are about “being aware.” In Isaiah, the Israelites come to realize just how far they have wandered away from God, deafening their ear to his guidance in how to live. With all that is going on in our world right now, I can become so distracted, fearing the worst, forgetting that the light of Christ is more powerful than any darkness. This Advent, I offer my fears…
Heather Makowicz, M.S.W.
Heather Makowicz has been serving as a Certified Spiritual Director as well as a retreat Leader through the Daylesford Abbey as well as Malvern Retreat House for over five years. In 2017, she founded Peak Encounter Ministries, to create a space for people to encounter God in nature through outdoor experiential retreats integrating scripture, prayer, and fellowship. Heather holds a Masters Certificate in Spiritual Direction from Neumann University, a Masters in Clinical Social Work from Norfolk State University, a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology, and completed a summer residency in leading individuals through the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius…
Holly Sairsingh
Day 19: December 17 Reflector: Holly Sairsingh Image Title: Generations of Waiting My husband bought this set of wooden turtles for me in Siberia, many years before we were married and, eventually, had two children of our own. When I look at this turtle family – a reflection of my own little family – I am reminded of the people who went before me generations ago, sacrificing safety and comfort, with patience and hope, to make a better life for their own families. The gospel reading today (Matthew 1:1-7) reminds us that it was through many individuals and generations, with years of…
Jaclyn Newns
Jaclyn Newns identifies as an artist, retreat facilitator, minister and spiritual director. She leans into the vocation of creating spaces of beauty, introspection, reflection. Having studied the impact of visual arts on spiritual formation at the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry, Jackie utilizes photography, watercolor, clay, and mixed media as approachable prayer practices, alongside the sharing of one’s narrative through spiritual direction. Since 2010, she has served educational and pastoral communities in the Philadelphia and Boston areas through retreats and presentations. Jackie enjoys companioning those looking to expand their images of the Divine, integrate creativity into their prayer…
Janira Bremner
Janira Bremner is a daughter of the Caribbean, shaped by the multi-cultural influences of small island identity – Jamaican & Guyanese ancestry: its food, music and sways of being. Since childhood, formal dance training, performance and engagement has been a formative part of her being. And, for thepast two decades she’s pursued an invitation to know the Holy Spirit’s beckoning in movement via discipleship, dance education, relocation and vocation. Most recently (the past 10 years), this has led her to residency and engagement in North Philadelphia, where she’s had the pleasure of living into the graces offered in all of…
Jared Epler
Jared is a licensed professional counselor and has worked for 12 years in education in Philadelphia. He currently works in the non-profit sector leading a college access program. He also provides both group and individual counseling through his organization Cura Personalis Counseling and Consulting.
Jeanne V. Mazzariello
Jeanne Mazzariello, a native of the area, has served in teaching and ministerial roles for some 40 years. Jeanne holds an undergraduate degree in Education and MA degrees in both Theology and Pastoral Counseling. Jeanne has earned Certifications in Teaching, Lay Ministry and Spiritual Direction. Jeanne was trained as a Spiritual Director as part of the first cohort at the Murphy Center for Ignatian Spirituality and feels privileged to serve as part of the College of Directors. Jeanne has been a member of the staff of Sacred Heart Academy in Hamden, CT for the past 27 years, serving in multiple roles,…
Jeff Wallace
Day 4: December 2 Image Title: Rolling Fog over Monté Sinai Reflector: Jeff Wallace @jeffreymiguelw The image of mountains ties the reading from the book of Isaiah to the Gospel of Matthew for me in today’s readings. This image seems fitting for what each reading describes because mountains can be challenging to climb, but reaching the mountaintop provides us with a new view of the world around us. This is what is being offered to me through these readings, and through this Advent season: an opportunity to see the world through new eyes, ones that believe in the mystery and…
Jessie Marinucci
Jessie Marinucci is a teacher of philosophy at Cristo Rey Philadelphia High School and an advocate of embodiment in our spiritual lives. Her formation as a teacher and facilitator has been greatly influenced by Ignatian Spirituality, particularly the 19th Annotation of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, where imagination and contemplation with the senses is an avenue to increased devotion and communion with the Spirit. As a facilitator, Jessie hopes to invite and encourage you on an intimate, personal journey with the God who is with us always and everywhere.
Jessie Marinucci
Jessie Marinucci is a teacher of philosophy at Cristo Rey Philadelphia High School and an advocate of embodiment in our spiritual lives. Her formation as a teacher and facilitator has been greatly influenced by Ignatian Spirituality, particularly the 19th Annotation of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, where imagination and contemplation with the senses is an avenue to increased devotion and communion with the Spirit. As a facilitator, Jessie hopes to invite and encourage you on an intimate, personal journey with the God who is with us always and everywhere.
John Dougherty
John Dougherty is a Catholic writer, campus minister, and dad based in the Philadelphia area. He serves as the Director of Campus Ministry at St. Joseph’s Prep and writes the weekly Catholic Movie Club column for America Magazine. Follow John’s writing at johndocwrites.com, on Instagram @johndocwrites, and X @johndoc23.
Julia Tully
Julia grew up very close to St. Raphaela Center, but didn’t actually make it inside until she was a graduate resident minister at Villanova! During the week she is a high school campus minister, but on the weekends she gets to combine her passions for food and ministry serving as the weekend cook. She sees the power in a shared meal on sacred ground and looks forward to nourishing souls and bodies through her work in the kitchen.
Julia Tully, Thomas Halsey Nailor
Day 12: December 10 Reflectors: Julia Tully & Thomas Halsey Nailor Image Title: Underneath the Noise Image Source: Tom Nailor Jesus tells us in today’s Scripture that, “Whoever has ears ought to hear” (Mt 11:15); yet how hard it can seem to listen! The clatter of the El. The rush of morning traffic. The person shouting on the sidewalk. Most of us would rather put our headphones in and keep our heads down. Why do we not listen? Perhaps because we are afraid of what we will hear–the cry of protestors across our country against racism and police brutality; the quiet loneliness of…
Karen Jantzi
Karen Jantzi started her professional career as a nurse. Her nursing experience includes school nurse in segregated Mississippi public schools, a psychiatric inpatient crisis unit, mental health consultant for developmentally disabled adults, and mental health advocate and educator for congregations and denominational groups. She participated in spiritual formation programs during this time, knowing she wanted to deepen her connection with God. She met her spiritual director, a retired Jesuit priest, during one of the programs. Fr. Ed introduced her to and trained her in Ignatian spirituality. Her combined interest in psychology, spirituality, education, theology and human development led her to…
Kathleen Cleaver
Kathy deeply respects the mystery of life unfolding in each unique person. Through prayerful attention, she meets with her directees to help them discern their truth, inner wisdom, and God’s loving guidance. Her areas of experience include working with the following: joys and challenges of marriage and family life, mid-life issues, enlarging images of God, dreams as a spiritual practice, life transitions and loss, marginalization, and building disciplines of the contemplative life. No matter what life experience one brings to spiritual direction, the goal is to seek how God is with us and to respond. It is a journey to…
Kathy Garrett
Day 10: December 8 Reflector: Kathy Garrett Image: SoulCollage® Mother Mary Most Graced, Mother Mary, Never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, We fly to you, Mary, Our Mother. To you we come, before you we stand, imperfect and sorrowful. And, in your tender mercy, we trust that you hear and love us, again and again and again for all ages.
Kathy Garrett
Day 10: December 8, Feast of the Immaculate Conception Reflector: Kathy Garrett @kathygarrettretreats Image Title: SoulCollage® Mother Mary Card Most Graced, Mother Mary, Never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, We fly to you, Mary, Our Mother. To you we come, before you we stand, imperfect and sorrowful. And, in your tender mercy, we trust that you hear and love us, again and again and again for all ages. Kathy Garrett is a retreat coach and leader who guides weekly Centering Prayer…
Kathy Garrett, Ph.D
Kathy Garrett, Ph.D. is a Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator and Retreat Facilitator. She is known for her warm and welcoming retreat style, her deep listening, and her delight to journey with others as they explore their life’s meanings with SoulCollage®. Kathy is also a professional development coach, a consultant in Team and Leadership Development and is on the graduate adjunct faculty at Saint Joseph’s University. Kathy has a wonderful connection with St. Raphaela Center as the incoming Chairwoman of their Advisory Board, as a volunteer, a retreatant and as a long term member of the Centering Prayer group.
Kathy Gazie, ACJ
Sister Kathy is from Wyandotte, Michigan. Her ministry experiences have included serving as an elementary teacher’s aide at St. Peter the Apostle; as a partner teacher, Art teacher, after-school care teacher, and pre-school teacher at Ancillae-Assumpta Academy; and as a member of Shawl Ministry. After having served at the Center from 1991-1996 as a member of the staff and Mission Center and coordinator of the Adorers of the Blessed Sacrament and volunteers, she most recently returned to the Center in 2014 as a member of the support staff and as a sacristan. At St. Raphaela Center, she most loves the…
Kevin Barr
Kevin Barr cites the Franciscan religious studies courses at Our Lady of Angels and Neumann College as the impetus for him to pursue a graduate degree in religious studies from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. After a weeklong rite of passage with Franciscan priest Richard Rohr and 110 other men from around the world, Barr left the business world and, for 20 years, worked for Catholic Social Services in Philadelphia. He has been an advocate for the poor and vulnerable in Chester County, a voice for homeless men in Philadelphia, and passionate for the gift of ‘God’s good children’ that he…
Leigh Murray
Leigh feels so honored to accompany sincere seekers on their interior journey to know themselves and God. She trained as a contemplative spiritual director at the Kairos Spiritual Direction program in Lancaster, PA. She leads retreats and has a particular interest in esoteric teachings and mysticism, offering experiential journeys into the teachings of the Christian Mystics. She has also completed St. Raphaela Center’s 19th Annotation Retreat Practicum in leading the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises. She feels so privileged to direct this rich and transformational experience with those that are called to it. Leigh is also a wife and mother of two…
Linda Robinson
Linda received a master’s degree in Religious Studies/Ministry from LaSalle College, a master’s degree in Education Leadership from St. Joseph’s University, and Advanced Graduate Certificates in Spiritual Direction and Supervision from Chestnut Hill College. She has 20 years’ experience as a spiritual director and has served as a Program Presenter and Visiting Director, directing individuals and retreats at The Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth for 18 years, and now at Daylesford Abbey. In addition to her spiritual direction/supervision ministry, Linda is an adjunct faculty member in Religious Studies at Chestnut Hill College. Having worked in education for many decades, and…
Lindsey Ranstrom
Day 22: December 20 Reflector: Lindsey Ranstrom Image Title: Kissing the Face of God Image Source: Morgan Weistling I first encountered this beautiful painting by Morgan Weistling at St. Raphaela Center during a silent retreat. I had never seen an image of Madonna and Child that was so relatable, so gentle, so intimate. It stuck with me long after my days in those halls ended and so I acquired a print for my own daughter’s nursery. As I rock my baby in my arms each day, I speak to Mary of our shared understanding of joyful anticipation. I…
Lindsey Ranstrom, NBC-HWC
Lindsey is a Catholic vocation coach and parish ministry professional. With extensive experience in the career, wellness, and ministry sectors, as well as over a decade in education, she assists individuals in moving their life toward one of purpose and joy. She does this by helping each person identify their goals and aspirations as it aligns with where God is calling them. By using a variety of different modalities, Lindsey meets each person where they are on their journey of personal and professional development, while taking into account what God has made them for. Lindsey is passionate about making the…
Lisa Hibberd
Lisa Hibberd is a licensed massage therapist and esthetician, a corporate drop-out, certified yoga teacher and Spiritual Companion. She was a designer for 20 years after attending Moore College of Art and Design. After a serious back injury resulting in emergency surgery brought her to her knees, she has been called to a life of wellness and balance. She incorporates art-making into prayer and offers massage in quiet meditative stillness or through mindful movement on retreats.
Lori Okema
Lori is an enrollment management professional who has spent her career connecting families to the best fit educational institution. From higher education to college prep to special education, Lori’s goal is to listen intently and problem solve with her families. Her believe that leaning and community can change the world.
Lyan Tri, ACJ
Sister Lyan, Director of St. Raphaela Center, was assigned to St. Raphaela Center in 2015 as both spiritual director and business manager. She holds a Master’s degree in Spirituality and Retreat Directing from Loyola School of Theology, Ateneo De Manila, a Jesuit University in the Philippines. Sister Lyan has been doing retreat ministry and accompanying others in Spiritual Direction since 2002, including directing the 8 day Ignatian Retreat, 30 day Spiritual Exercises and 19th Annotation. She recently participated in a three months internship renewal program in Spiritual Direction through the Ignatius Jesuit Centre in Guelph, Canada, a program of international…
Maria O’Malley
Day 21: December 19 Maria O’Malley @pprimrosie Image Title: Waiting Today’s Gospel tells us the story of Zechariah & Elizabeth who waited many years not only for their own child but for the Messiah. Like them and like Mary also waiting, this seemingly barren little paper white bulb reminds me to wait patiently and in great expectation. I plant it on the first day of Advent and each day I see life slowly emerge as I wait in hope and reflect on what wonderful things The Lord has in store. FOR NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD! Maria is…
Mary Breslin
Mary holds a BS and an MBA from La Salle University, and her spirituality and knowledge of the Handmaids complement her technical formation. After spending a few years in Colorado and California, she, her husband and their children returned to Philadelphia, where their children continued their education at Ancillae-Assumpta Academy. There, Mary was introduced to the Handmaids and served on Parents Council, coached lacrosse and field hockey, and chaired the Food Drive. She became an ACJ Associate and, over the last 10 years, she has grown in her love of St. Raphaela and of the Handmaid charism, and has served…
Mary Pollini
A former math teacher and lover of music, Mary completed her certification in Spiritual Direction at The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune, NJ and in retreat direction at The Jesuit Center, Wernersville, PA. She offers individual spiritual direction and facilitates a variety of programs in her home parish of St. Luke, Whitestone, NY. Mary also served as a guest retreat director at The Jesuit Center and presently at the SSJ Center for Spirituality in Ocean Grove, NJ and CSJ La Providencia Center, Brentwood, NY, among others.
Mary-Elaine Perry
Mary-Elaine Perry, Manager of the Sr. Raphaela Center, assists with the maintenance and enhancement of the facilities and continue creating a welcoming environment for guests. Mary-Elaine holds a BS in Elementary Education from Bloomsburg University, an MA in Counseling and Student Personnel from The College of New Jersey and an EdD in Higher Education Administration from the University of Pennsylvania. She spent over 40 years in Student Affairs in Higher Education and continues to teach at the graduate level. Mary-Elaine has served as a Communion Minister in various communities and is currently involved in ministry as a Sacristan at Saint…
MaryAnn Coyle
MaryAnn has been connected with us for decades, following in her mom Jean’s footsteps, who served on staff for over 30 years. MaryAnn can be found joyfully preparing meals using the freshest ingredients and listening to upbeat music in the kitchen. Recently, MaryAnn became “Nonna” with the birth of Olive, her granddaughter. We are so grateful for MaryAnn’s consciousness of caring for God’s earth through her ministry. She prepares meals from a deep place of love and intention to care for the health and nourishment of the human body.
Maureen Rilling
Day 17: December 15 Reflector: Maureen Rilling Image Title: Pending Arrival Teach me your ways, Lord. So many plans these days are tentative. So much is pending. Lord, let me face these times of restriction and uncertainty with humility. Let me rely on your kindness and mercy. Help me to trust in your promises and to see things as you see them. Teach me your ways, Lord. (Psalm 25) Now in her 4th year as the Director of Religious Education at Ancillae-Assumpta Academy, Maureen’s association with Ancillae goes back to 1998, when she and her husband John enrolled the older…
Megan Brown, RSM
Day 2: November 30 Reflector: Megan Brown, RSM Image Title: Sirius Image Source: Getty, Forbes As we stand at the beginning of this Advent season , the words of John’s gospel ring out: “The light shines on in darkness, a darkness that did not overcome it.” (Jn.1: 5) In the midst of all the darknesses of our lives these days, the strength, clarity and beauty of the Sirius star reminds us that light shines most brilliantly in darkness. Thus enabled, along with St. Andrew, whose feast we celebrate this day, we go forth remembering, “How beautiful are those whose feet…
Megan O’Sullivan
Megan O’Sullivan is a mother of a 2 year-old, an occupational therapist, and a novice retreat facilitator. She first came to the Center during her time at St. Joseph’s University, continued to experience its gifts while completing Contemplative Leaders in Action, and is now looking forward to grounding herself in its peace as she stumbles through her postpartum journey and leans on the shared sentiments of fellow mothers.
Meghan Dietzler
Day 5: December 3 Reflector: Meghan Dietzler @dietzlaughlove Image Title: “a family prayer” (Monte Sinai, Ecuador) “He humbles those in high places, and the lofty city he brings down…It is trampled underfoot by the needy, by the footsteps of the poor.” Isaiah 26:5-6 This year, I have longed so deeply for an end to division and righteous anger. For God’s light to guide a path that allows each and every person to be seen, listened to, valued, and loved. For compassion and mercy to guide our all too quick judgements of each other and of ourselves. I chose this image…
Mercedes Rojo, OSF
Day 23: December 21 Sr. Mercedes Rojo, OSF Image Title: O Radiant Dawn! Image Source: www.pexels.com A few days ago, while walking on the Darby Creek Trail, the water was flowing and beautiful, but the sky was so filled with clouds that I could not see the sun. Suddenly, as I sat on a rock looking at the water, light began to peek in and out of the clouds, the sun rays shining brightly on the creek and the rocks on the edge of the creek. And the words of the ancient Advent O Antiphon came to me:…
Michele Shimizu-Kelley
Day 13: December 11 Reflector: Michele Shimizu-Kelley @michelejsk Image Title: Sunrise at Acadia National Park (August 2020) Have you greeted the sun yet today? Have you taken a moment to appreciate the star that’s fixed just the right distance from Earth so that it provides life-sustaining energy to all the diverse living beings of our planet? Today’s Scripture readings invite us to take stock of our lives, both individually and collectively, from an illuminating perspective. Jesus asks, “To what can I compare this generation?” (Matthew 11:16). It’s a fitting question for us all today who are living during a global pandemic and…
Michelle Gomez
Michelle Gomez received her certification in spiritual direction through the Murphy Center for Ignatian Spirituality at Fairfield University. She also works as a contracted Program Associate for the Ignatian Spiritual Direction Initiative at the Office of Ignatian Spirituality (OIS). She entered the path to spiritual direction and Ignatian Spirituality through work in parent ministry, where she continues to plan and facilitate programs for Jesuit school parents. She created the Ignatian Parent Network, an effort to connect Jesuit school parent spiritual groups. She has completed the 19th Annotation and the OIS Magis Program, an adult Ignatian formation program. She is a…
Nan C. Bouché
Nan C. Bouché is a wife, mother, grandmother and retired hospital chaplain. As a trained spiritual director and supervisor, she has ministered for many years in her local area of Cape Cod, Massachusetts as well as at various retreat houses where she has served as a guest director. Nan holds a Masters Degree in Theology with concentration in Pastoral Care and Counseling from Boston College. She has a particular passion for Ignatian Spirituality.
Nancy Santamaria
Nancy Santamaria ministers as a full time spiritual director at Saint John Vianney Center, a holistic residential behavioral health center for Christian religious men and women suffering from depression, anxiety, addictions, and coping with personality disorders. Nancy also practices spiritual direction and bereavement care at Daylesford Abbey. She holds two Masters, one from Chestnut Hill College in Holistic Spirituality, a Bereavement care Certificate, CPE education, and is a sendee of The Living School. She is keen to see how grace, trauma, self-compassion, and grief integrate in the psycho-bio-spiritual realm.
Nicholas Collura
Trained in the Narrative Enneagram tradition, Nicholas Collura is a spiritual director and Enneagram teacher whose work draws on the wisdom of the creative imagination. He studied film and literature at Yale University and earned a Master of Divinity at the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry. He is also a board-certified chaplain and serves as the Director of Pastoral Care at Redeemer Hospice. www.nicholascollura.com
Nicholas Collura, advent
Day 24: December 22 Reflector: Nicholas Collura Image Title: Kitchen table, Shuinota House, L’Arche Seattle Image Source: Jessica Liu I am a palliative care chaplain, and a dying woman told me once that what she wanted from the precious weeks that remained to her was simply to be with her loved ones. “It sounds silly,” she said, “but even if there’s nothing to do or say, I just want to sit and look at them.” In fact, nothing sounds more sacred to me than a dying person gazing at the faces of those she loves. Mary sings…
Nora Blumenstein
Nora Blumenstein is a masters level social worker and certified 200-hr yoga teacher from Philadelphia. After graduating from the College of the Holy Cross, she served with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest in Sitka, AK where she began a career serving women. Nora has provided case management and counseling to women overcoming domestic violence and sexual assault in Alaska, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Belize. Most recently, she served as Program Director for Soroptimist International of the Americas/LiveYourDream.org, a global nonprofit serving women and girls overcoming poverty and violence. Nora lives in Portland, OR and is nourished by reading, travel, yoga,…
Paolo Gamberini, SJ
Born in Ravenna (Italy) and a Jesuit since 1983, Paolo Gamberini teaches undergraduate Theology at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. His first experience in the USA was at age 16 when he applied for an exchange program, AFS (American Field Service). He is the author of almost one-hundred articles and essays, and a few books, dealing with Systematic theology, Christology, Doctrine of the Trinity, Ecumenical Theology and Spirituality, with his most recent book entitled: “Deus 2.0. Rethinking the Christian Faith from the Post-Theistic Perspective.” His current research is focused on rethinking the “form” of our Christian faith, with an approach…
Patty O’Shea Creech
Patty completed her spiritual direction formation training at Quellen Spiritual Center in Mendham NJ in 2016. She has completed Contemplative Outreach formation for Introduction to Centering prayer in February 2018 and, subsequently, has assisted in presenting centering prayer retreats and workshops in New Jersey. Her spiritual life is informed by her Catholic faith and by 30 years of engagement in 12 step spirituality. She has a special interest in Centering Prayer as an 11th Step Practice. She retired from 19 years as a hospice RN and previously spent many years working for a large corporation. She currently volunteers in her…
Paul Burgmayer, Ph.D
Paul has been accompanying others in spiritual direction for twelve years now. A former industrial chemical researcher and high school teacher, Paul has a master’s degree in Holistic Spirituality and a certificate in spiritual direction from Chestnut Hill College, certificates in supervision of spiritual direction from Together in the Mystery (affiliated with San Francisco Seminary), and Mercy Center, Burlingame, and he is trained to (and has a special love for) accompanying others in the Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius of Loyola. A member of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church for more than thirty years, he has developed and taught a number of adult…
Phyllis Zagano, Ph.D
Phyllis Zagano has ministered as a Spiritual Director for many years, accompanying women and men preparing for ministry at schools of theology in New York and Boston. In addition to her academic preparation in theology and spirituality, she completed the spiritual direction program at the Jesuit Center in Wernersville, PA. She has directed many 8-day retreats and has written widely on spirituality and ministry.
Rachel Swenarton
Day 7: December 5 Reflector: Rachel Swenarton @rachelswen Image Description: bathroom graffiti at Johnny Mac’s bar in Asbury Park, NJ Today’s Gospel says that “without cost you have received; without cost you are to give (Mt. 10:8).” I initially wrestled with this reading because my mind went to the tangible, and I know that the stuff I have been given has been a cost to many. But then I remembered that if anything is Free it is the compassion and effort that resides in God and, as such, in me and most every living thing. And once again I am…
Rasheeda Hastings
Rasheeda Hastings is a Certified Spiritual Director who resides in Philadelphia, where she works with Cranaleith Spiritual Center as Community Engagement Liaison. Rasheeda was intrigued with the labyrinth at an early age. As an adult, when navigating through challenging times in life, she returned to the labyrinth as a calming meditation in motion. The labyrinth has since become much more in Rasheeda’s life. She enjoys the labyrinth as a way to enhance balance. A way to connect to her inner self which connects to the Divine. She became affiliated with Veriditas, a non-profit organization that provides training and support of…
Rebecca Bergh
Day 15: December 13 Reflector: Rebecca Bergh @bextheerex Image: Immersion In today’s readings, we hear of gratitude for what we have received from God. Despite our God given gifts and talents, identifying what is true during times of uncertainty is a sure balm. For within those truths we can name, despite the darkness we may feel, God may immerse us just as we were within the sacrament of baptism. We are filled with renewed purpose, zeal, and direction to make way for our Lord. A musician by trade and music therapist by profession, Rebecca Bergh most often can be…
Rev. Dr. Phaedra D. Blocker
Rev. Dr. Phaedra D. Blocker is a preacher, teacher, singer, spiritual director, and retreat leader. Founder and principal of Word&Wisdom, she is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to move toward wholeness and actualize their potential as agents of change and shalom in the world. She serves as Director of the Center for Care, Formation & Vitality at Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University and is Affiliate Professor in Leadership & Formation. Her 20-plus years of pastoral ministry experience includes serving in both large and small congregations, and she has more than 30 years’ experience in management, community relations, communications and marketing,…
Robert (Buddy) Kretzman
I am a spiritual director and supervisor affiliated with the Murphy Center for Ignatian Spirituality at Fairfield University. I was trained and received my certification in spiritual direction, the 19th annotation and supervision from the Murphy Center. I regularly accompany people in spiritual direction and the 19th annotation and serve as a leader in St Aloysius Roman Catholic parish men’s ministry. I have been married to Clare for 39 years and we have two adult sons and 3 grandchildren. I retired as Chief Legal, Human Resources and Administrative Officer of a NYSE Company and served on its Board of directors…
Sean Burman
Day 8: December 6 Reflector: Sean Burman @seanburman Image: Crucifix @jortegaphoto In today’s Gospel, John the Baptist sends a powerful message. We are told to prepare for the birth of our Savior by repenting for our sins. This is a message that I take to heart. In addition to seeking the sacrament of reconciliation during the season of Advent, I spend time praying on the Psalms. I have spent quite a bit of time this week praying on today’s Psalm. Psalm 85:8, “Lord, let us see your kindness, and grant us your salvation.” I chose the image of the crucifix…
Shera Morris
Shera Morris grew up in Alabama with a pastor father and an art teacher mother. Her household was equal parts creative projects and preaching. As a true reflection of that upbringing, Shera has owned several creative businesses and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Theological Studies. The thesis to finish that degree was titled Visual Arts in Ministry. These two worlds have always been combined for Shera and she looks forward to continuing to reflect the creativity of our Creator. You can find Shera on Instagram @whatshemakin where she’s making dinner for her family, decor for her home in Elkins…
Sindy Collazo
Sindy Collazo serves as the Associate Director of Hispanic Ministries for The Office of Ignatian Spirituality, a ministry of the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus. Sindy brings her own deep formation in Ignatian spirituality and extensive experience with the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Loyola to the OIS team. She received a master’s degree in theology from Weston Jesuit School of Theology in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and an MBA from La Universidad Interamericana. She was also a member of the “Equipo Pastoral para la Nueva Evangelización” of the former New York Jesuit Province (now the USA East Province).…
Sister Cam Banh, ACJ
Sister Cam, who is of Chinese decent, was born and grew up in South Vietnam. She immigrated to the United States (Pennsylvania in 1982, and in 1989 entered the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the USA Province. After finishing her religious formation, she studied and completed her Bachelor’s degree in Theology and her Master’s degree in Community Counseling, both from Villanova University. Sister Cam also completed two years training in Spiritual Direction at the Jesuit Center in Wernersville, PA. She worked for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia for 14 years as a social worker and case manager, counseling…
Sister Carmen Cabrejos, ACJ
Sister Carmen Cabrejos is a Handmaid of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Born in Peru, she has lived in the United States since 1986, in Miami, Athens and Atlanta GA, Philadelphia, and is coming back to Haverford. She has worked in Hispanic ministry, adult faith formation, work with the homeless and Spiritual Direction. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Theology from Villanova University and a Master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry from Boston College. She was trained in spiritual direction at Mercy Center in Colorado and Thomas University in Miami. She is experienced in giving spiritual direction in both English and…
Sister Catherine Anne Soley, ra
Catherine Soley is a Religious of the Assumption who has been involved in the ministry of spiritual direction for about 10 years. She has a certificate from the Jesuit Retreat Center in Guelph, Ontario and in 2023 completed the Spiritual Director Internship Initiative program. Catherine has also directed members of her congregation on retreat. Catherine holds a BFA in painting from Tyler School of Art and pursued theological studies at Assumption University in Worcester, MA. She currently resides in West Philadelphia, PA.
Sister Cecilia Tong, ACJ
Sister Cecilia is a Handmaid of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. She is a Vietnamese-American and has previously served in the United States as a counselor for Pastoral Care of Migrants and Refugees for 13 years. She holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from Villanova University and a Master’s Degree in Religious Studies from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia. She has completed the training program for directing retreats and spiritual direction at the Jesuit Center. Prior to her arrival at the Center, she was a staff member at the East Asian Pastoral Institute of the Jesuit University in…
Sister Clare A. D’Auria OSF
Clare A. D’Auria OSF, a Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia, Aston, PA, currently ministers as a staff member at the Franciscan Spiritual Center in Aston, Pennsylvania. For half of her fifty years in ministry, Clare has traveled throughout the United States and abroad, offering directed retreats as well as guided and preached retreats especially focused on women’s spirituality and the spirituality of aging. She also served on the staff of Franciscan Pilgrimage Programs for eight years, leading pilgrims through the holy sites in both Assisi and Rome. A certified spiritual director, her other ministerial experience has included congregational and…
Sister Jean Marie Holup, SS.C.M.
Jean Marie Holup, SS.C.M., a Sister of Sts. Cyril and Methodius, has previously ministered for 20 years as the Director of St. Cyril Spiritual Center in Danville, PA. Before that time, Jean was on staff at Bon Secours Spiritual Center in Marriottsville, MD. She received an M.A. in Christian Spirituality in 1995 from Creighton University, Omaha, NE, and did her practicum at the Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth in Wernersville, PA. It has been her privilege to be involved in retreat work on the East Coast at Mercy Center in CT and Gonzaga Eastern Point Jesuit retreat house in Gloucester,…
Sister Jean Marie Pisula, CSFN
Sister Jean Marie Pisula is a Sister of the Holy Family Of Nazareth, who just recently returned from 26 years of missionary service in the Philippines. Her Masters degree in Spirituality at Creighton University and her studies and practicum at the Ignatian Spirituality Center in the Philippines have helped her to do ministries like Bible Studies, Religious Life and Teacher Formation, Spiritual Direction, Directed Retreats, and Family Ministry. Ignatius’ Principal and Foundation of experiencing God’s unconditional love is inspirational to her and in accord with Nazareth’s charism and mission of Extending the Kingdom of God’s love.
Sister Jessica Kerber, ACJ
Sister Jessica Kerber entered with the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus 13 years ago, after serving with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and later meeting the Sisters on a mission trip in El Salvador. After professing her first vows, she completed her philosophy and theology studies at the Jesuit Pontifical University in Madrid, where she also studied about the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius as well as accompaniment. She has served as the Director of Religious Education at Ancillae-Assumpta Academy, and now complements her ministry at St. Raphaela’s with campus ministry at St. Joseph’s University and as an adjunct…
Sister Karen Doyle, SSJ
Karen M. Doyle SSJ, D. Min., a Sister of St. Joseph of Philadelphia enjoys the ministry of spiritual direction, supervision, formation of spiritual directors and Ignatian Spirituality for thirty years. She has ministered to spiritual directors in the United States, Canada, Philippines, Denmark and Taiwan.
Sister Kathy Benham, IHM
Sister Kathy Benham, IHM is a member of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Immaculata, Pennsylvania. Her experience of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius laid a strong foundation for her spiritual growth and formation as a spiritual director, religious educator and parish minister. Her places of study include Immaculata University, Creighton University, The Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth, Wernersville, Pennsylvania, Ignatius Center, Guelph, Ontario and The Upper Room, Neptune, New Jersey. Sister Kathy has served a diverse population of the People of God in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Georgia and Perú. Although not totally bilingual in Spanish, Sister…
Sister Kayjoy Cooper, ACJ
Sister Kayjoy’s ministry includes pastoral counseling and spiritual direction in the Ignatian tradition. She studied Ignatian spirituality at the Jesuit Center in Wernersville, PA and the theology of religious life at Saint Louis University. She received her Master’s of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at St. Thomas University in Miami. Her work has included accompanying young adults in the process of the discernment of life choices.
Sister Lyan Tri, ACJ
Sister Lyan, Business Manager and Spiritual Director at St. Raphaela Center, was assigned to the Center in 2015 and was its Director from 2018-22. She holds a Master’s degree in Spirituality and Retreat Directing from Loyola School of Theology, Ateneo De Manila, a Jesuit University in the Philippines. Sister Lyan has been doing retreat ministry and accompanying others in Spiritual Direction since 2002, including directing the 8 day Ignatian Retreat, 30 day Spiritual Exercises and 19th Annotation. She has participated in a three-month internship renewal program in Spiritual Direction through the Ignatius Jesuit Centre in Guelph, Canada, a program of…
Sister Margaret Scott, aci
Dr. Margaret Scott, a Handmaid of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is an experienced spiritual director and retreat giver. Her fluency in several languages, international travel and mission work have provided her with a global view and understanding of the universal church. She is a regular speaker and writer on the Eucharist in different countries based on her studies and book: “The Eucharist and Social Justice”. Sister Margaret also writes regularly for a variety of magazines including The Way, Manresa and Testimonio. She is now engaged in writing a book on the ecological dimensions of the Spiritual Exercises. She is…
Sister Maria McCoy, SSJ
Maria McCoy SSJ, is a Sister of Saint Joseph of Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania. She recently completed 23 years of ministry as a member of the Spiritual Growth Staff at the Jesuit Center, Wernersville, PA. In addition to spiritual direction, retreats, offering programs, Maria leads retreats and workshops on Praying with Female Images of God. Maria’s educational opportunities include a BA in Psychology from Chestnut Hill College, Masters Degree in Christian Spirituality from Creighton University, and Theology and Spirituality courses through the multi-cultural ARC Program, Rome, Italy. Maria also received a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Lancaster Theological Seminary. Her doctoral…
Sister Mary Anne Nolan, RSM
Mary Anne Nolan has been a Sister of Mercy for 59 years. Her most recent ministry has been as Co-Director of Mercy Spiritual Ministries, a mobile ministry of the Sisters of Mercy engaging individuals and groups in prayer, reflection and ongoing spiritual development. A spiritual director for over 25 years, she has also served as adjunct professor of Religious Studies at Gwynedd Mercy University. Sister has ministered to the spiritual needs of the elderly for more than twenty years.
Sister Mary Carboy, SSJ
Sister Mary has been a Spiritual Director at St. Raphaela Center for many years. Her internship program in spiritual direction began with the Sisters of St. Joseph’s Center for Spirituality in Chestnut Hill, PA. She earned her undergraduate degree in Education at Chestnut Hill College and a Master’s of Arts in Spirituality from Duquesne. She has completed the spiritual direction program at the Jesuit Center in Wernersville, PA. As a Sister of St. Joseph, Mary has served as directress of novices and as a congregational area delegate for her community. She has directed the 30-day and 8-day retreats, and has conducted…
Sister Mary Ellen Higgins, IHM
Mary Ellen Higgins, IHM, is a Sister, Servant of the Immaculate Heart of Mary from Scranton, PA. She was trained in the practice of spiritual direction at Fordham University and has companioned others in spiritual direction for over twenty five years. Mary Ellen served in Latin America for seventeen years and so also speaks Spanish. She presently provides retreats and spiritual direction to others both in person and via technology.
Sister Mary Thomas More Fahey, RGS
Mary Thomas More Fahey, RGS is a member of the New York-Toronto Province of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, an international religious order currently serving in seventy-two countries. Trained by the Jesuits in England and New York, Sister is involved in a variety of Spiritual Ministries including spiritual direction, retreats, religious formation, and formation of spiritual directors, among others.
Sister Megan Brown, RSM
Megan Brown, RSM, D.Min. is a member of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, the Mid-Atlantic Community. She presently ministers as an Incorporation Minister for the Mid-Atlantic Community. Megan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English, a Masters Degree in Pastoral Counseling and a Doctor of Ministry degree in Applied Ministries. She is also a certified diversity trainer. Fascinated with the interplay of psychology and spirituality, Megan is also a spiritual director. She has directed numerous retreats and workshops in the areas of Spirituality and Prayer, Celtic Spirituality, Catherine McAuley, Mercy Spirituality, and the Spirituality of Therese of Lisieux. Additionally,…
Sister Mercedes Rojo, OSF
Mercedes Rojo, OSF, is a Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia. She is a psychotherapist, spiritual director and retreat facilitator. Sister Mercedes has extensive experience as an educator, retreat facilitator, spiritual director, and mental health counselor, and is passionate about bringing her faith and her experience of God’s PRESENCE in the Here and Now to all her encounters with others helping them recognize that they are loved and cherished by God and called to incarnate the Divine Spark that lives within each one of us.
Sister Michelle Cimaroli, aci
Sister Michelle is originally from Chicago. Prior to becoming the Director of St. Raphaela Center, she has primarily served as a Math teacher at various schools, including the Cristo Rey High Schools in Baltimore and Philadelphia, Ancillae-Assumpta Academy, and a secondary school in Equatorial Guinea. Her ministry experiences in different countries have instilled in her a love for diversity and for learning about different cultures and languages, including Spanish. She holds an M.S. of Education from St. Joseph’s University and a Master of Theological Studies from Villanova. She is currently in formation as a Spiritual Director at the Murphy Center…
Sister Oanh Vo, aci
Oanh Vo, aci, a member of the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, ministers as a family nurse practitioner and a spiritual companion. She enjoys integrating the Handmaid’s charism of reparation with Ignatian spirituality, her nursing vocation, and her rich Vietnamese culture. She endeavors to accompany individuals holistically and facilitate the practice of presence in their daily lives to promote greater healing, integration, freedom, and connection. She received a certificate in spiritual direction from the Spiritual Direction Internship Initiative in Boston, and a Master’s in Nursing from Villanova University. She enjoys cooking healthy Vietnamese food and creating art with…
Sister Pat Mensing, SSJ
Sister Pat is a Sister of St. Joseph of Philadelphia who has served in education and parish ministries. She earned Master’s Degrees in English at Villanova University and Theology at St. Michael’s College in Colchester, VT, as well as her certificate in Spiritual Direction and Ignatian Retreats from Creighton University. She has directed weekend and 8 day retreats, and in addition, she has given days of prayer, led Bible study, facilitated book groups to discover how to find God in all genres of literature, and conducted workshops on discernment, praying the Examen, and other spiritual topics.
Sister Ruthann O'Mara, SSJ
Ruthann O’Mara, SSJ, a Sister of Saint Joseph, Philadelphia, PA, holds a Master’s Degree in Spiritual Direction and Holistic Spirituality from Chestnut Hill College, Phila., PA, and a Certificate in Supervision for Spiritual Directors from the Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune, NJ. Sr. Ruthann has ministered as a spiritual director, retreat director, and supervisor for spiritual directors for over 20 years.
Sister Uyen-Chi Dang, ACJ
Sister Uyen-Chi was born in Viet Nam, but grew up in California since her family took refuge in the United States after the Fall of Saigon. She graduated from the University of California with a BS in Bioengineering. After a few years of working as a researcher for a pharmaceutical company, she went back to school to pursuit a career in education. She was a high school math teacher for 7 years and a confirmation catechist for 9 years before becoming a Handmaid of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. She holds a Master’s Degree in Theology from Villanova. She had…
Sr. Anne McCoy, SSJ
Anne McCoy is a Sister of St. Joseph, and has a masters in Holistic Spirituality and Spiritual Direction from Chestnut Hill College, and a masters in Religious Studies from Villanova University. She has been involved in spiritual direction, retreat ministry, parish missions, parish and faculty retreat days of recollection over the past 35 years.
Sr. Jean Marie Holup, SSSCM
Jean Marie Holup, SS.C.M., a Sister of Sts. Cyril and Methodius, has been the Director of St. Cyril Spiritual Center in Danville, PA , for the past 20 years. She received an M.A. in Christian Spirituality in 1995 from Creighton University, Omaha, NE, and did her practicum at the Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth in Wernersville, PA. Jean is currently the Director of Formation for her Congregation. She has witnessed the profound insights discovered through the working of the Holy Spirit during each person’s spiritual journey. It has been her joy, to accompany laity, clergy of various denominations, and those…
Sr. Julia Keegan, OSF
Sr. Julia Keegan is a staff member at the Franciscan Spiritual Center. She is a Spiritual Director and a retreat presenter on many topics (i.e. Gratitude, Teilhard de Chardin, Evolutionary Spirituality, various New Testament Parables, etc). She is responsible for the creation and upkeep of the Spiritual Center’s Website as well as social media and a blog. Her past ministries include Cardiovascular Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nursing Education, hospital administration, and development.
Sr. Mary Elizabeth Looby, GNSH
Sr. Mary Elizabeth Looby is a Grey Nun of the Sacred Heart. She holds a BA in History and Political Science from D’Youville College; a M.Ed. in Educational Administration from Temple University. Her training for spiritual direction and retreat ministry was at Bon Secours Spiritual Center in MD. She added a certification in Spiritual Direction from Neumann University, followed by a M.S. in Pastoral Care and Counseling with an Emphasis in Spiritual Care at Neumann. She has served as a spiritual director for 30 plus years and directed retreats in MD, PA, NY, NJ, CT and RI. She has served…
Sr. Trudy Ahern, SSJ
Trudy Ahern a Sister of St. Joseph of Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania. She has served on the SSJ Center for Spirituality Staff for 14 years and 25 years as Co-Director of the Upper Room Spiritual Center in Neptune, NJ which she recently completed. In addition to offering programs on Spiritual Direction and Supervision at Creighton University, the Philippines, and Arkansas, she has given numerous retreats and other programs for spiritual enrichment. Her education includes a BS in Education from Chestnut Hill and a Masters’s Degree in Christian Spirituality from Creighton University.
Steven Molinari
Steven joins our team to manage Dining Services with decades of experience as a chef – building menus, running kitchens, and establishing new restaurants. Steven’s love for food began watching his father and learning from his family – a passion for cooking and table fellowship is within him. He enjoys creating community around the table, using the freshest ingredients from the Earth, creativity exploring new recipes and mentoring young professionals in their desire to build careers in dining and hospitality. Steven prepares all meals from a deep place of love and intention to care for the health and nourishment of…
Sue Buck
Sue Buck is the Leader of the ACI Associates for the US Province of the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and a volunteer at St. Raphaela Center. She felt called to become an Associate because she wanted to go deeper into her own spirituality, to be part of a community that practiced Ignatian Spirituality, and to learn more about adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, an important form of prayer for her. She is particularly attracted to uniting the whole world through Eucharistic Reparation–being Eucharist to everyone she meets. Sue and three other women, under the guidance of Sr.…
Tricia Gardner
Tricia Gardner received her Bachelor’s in Theology from Boston College and her Master’s in Counseling Psychology from the Adler Institute in Chicago. Presently, she is working towards her certification in Spiritual Direction at Fairfield University. She has written two books. Traveling with Mary is her first book on prayer, And Her Name Is Lucia, is her first children’s book. Tricia resides in Haddon Heights, New Jersey with her husband and eight children. When leading retreats, Tricia combines art and music to immerse participants into scripture scenes, creating enriching and profound experiences of prayer. Sharing her own personal stories of her…
Tricia Way
Dr. Tricia Way has taught religious and justice studies courses inside prisons and in higher education institutions for over two decades, including a Death and Dying course with incarcerated hospice workers at SCI-Graterford. She is now principal consultant and fundraising counsel with Way Consulting Services, lending her experiences and expertise to justice-oriented nonprofit, public interest, and social impact organizations working to transform our society’s responses to interpersonal and systemic harms. Tricia is also a facilitator with JUST Listening and co-author of The Little Book of Listening: Listening as a Radical Act of Love, Justice, Healing, and Transformation.