The Mid-North America province is pleased to welcome Angela Pancella as the new mission formation coordinator. Based in her native St. Louis, she collaborates with Lizzie Cody, director of the Office of Mission Effectiveness.
Angela brings experience in non-profit, community service, and facilitation to the role. After living and serving 14 years in an intentional Christian community in metro Cincinnati, she returned to her hometown as the director of stewardship at St. FrancisXavier College Church, a Catholic parishon St. Louis University’s campus. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in divinity online through the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago as well.
What are you looking forward to in your new role?
This role fits so many of my interests in community building, fostering relationships, and seeking to encourage others. I’m excited to travel to the agencies affiliated with Good Shepherd and see for myself the important work they do. My hope is that I will get to meet as many sisters and partners-in-mission as possible.
Have you been introduced to St. Mary Euphrasia?
Yes, I’m reading her biography, Redemption, and I especially liked a sweet story about Mary Euphrasia visiting a convent in England and transcending the language barrier: “The Mother General would have wished to be able to speak to the children, but she knew no English, so the sisters taught her to say slowly and carefully, ‘I love you all.’”
By the way, my mother’s maiden name is Pelletier; I haven’t found a direct family connection to St. Mary Euphrasia, but it’s fun to think that it could be possible.
What’s another fun fact about you that may surprise people to know?
When we do meet, ask me about the rock band U2. They’re my favorite! I have gone to about 20 of their concerts, and I have even traveled to see them in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
My experience as a fan impacts the way I feel about community and hospitality. Because of U2, I have met fans all over the world, and our shared interest in the band helps us connect across many differences. I have a beautiful memory of sitting in a bar singing, “One,” with fans in Bucharest, Romania.