Oriana Li Halevy

Oriana Li Halevy

Permanent Community Member
philomath
hodophile

“Journeying together with the CC@S as I redefine success and rebalance my fulfillment portfolio at midlife has helped answer three questions in the affirmative: Is my faith ever increasing in spite of life’s seemingly endless challenges? Do I have soul-nourishing and life-affirming friends and communities to lean into? Are my vocations aligned with the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity? Yes, yes, and yes!”

My active exploration of the expansive Catholic intellectual, theological, spiritual, and liturgical traditions that began online during the pandemic led me to Fr. Xavier’s edifying RCIA classes and my first Mass at Mem Chu, where a witty duet by Fr. Dominic and Sr. Gloria cinched my decision to jump into this enthralling adventure that attracts seekers of Beauty, Goodness, and Truth. I continue to marvel at the panoply of gifted and humble servants among the cross-disciplinary and cross-generational members of this treasure of a campus parish. Their dedication and enthusiasm exemplify faith in action and showcase the graced and joyous reflections of a welcoming community with a vision of global participation.

Serving in the lector ministry has taught me to read the Scriptures liturgically. Attending guided spiritual retreats has enriched my contemplative practices repertoire. Joining small groups has forged meaningful friendships that continue to expand my lifeline of fellow pilgrims with whom I share communion and mission. Assisting on the Education action team has underscored the need to contextualize core faith concepts vis-à-vis the concrete realities of our diverse constituents when designing programs that support intellectual and spiritual formation and growth.

Participating in the “listening circle” and “focus group” phases of the synodal process that engaged hearts and minds through candid sharing and collaborative listening has deepened my appreciation for not only intentional community building and strengthening initiatives, but also for the New Testament’s high concentration of Greek word compounds formed with συν (“syn,” meaning “together/with”), including σῠ́νοδος, from which “synod” and “synodality” originate. Journeying in such good company is truly a privilege and a blessing.