Serra helps bring the mission to a place of incarnation through in-person events like retreats, conference appearances, and other projects. Serra graduated from Franciscan University of Steubenville with a Bachelor’s in Education. She has since worked in ministry as a campus minister, camp staff, and director of residence life at her alma mater. A foundational charism for Serra is hospitality; she aims to create a space of welcome and belonging, whether it be through small acts of kindness or organizing an entire event.
"On the Porch" with Serra
We’re more than what we do or what we’ve done– we’re unrepeatable people with unique stories to tell.
So if you have a moment, pull up a chair on our metaphorical porch here and get to know us a bit more!
How have you seen God moving in your life?
The Lord has consistently shown up for me in community, allowing those alongside me to direct (or redirect) me to the Heart of Jesus. I first heard about Eden Invitation through an alumni group at my university, just as Anna and Shannon (our Co-Founders) were starting their work for Eden Invitation. After reading Anna’s first blog, I reached out to her. Anna listened to my story, my questions, and my wrestlings- and cared for me as a person- similar to what we still do at EI with story calls.
Who has inspired you on this Journey to Heaven? Patron Saints, role models, cool authors?
I am grateful for holy friends on earth and in Heaven who have guided me along the way! My mentors, spiritual directors, and friends have been so impactful on my faith journey. A few of my heavenly friends are St. Therese (my confirmation Saint), St. Edith Stein, St. John Bosco, St. Mary Magdalene, and St. John the Beloved
What’s a beautiful part of your job? Perhaps something that people may not see from the surface level of your job description?
The little things make a big difference! Before planning an event, there are so many details to figure out. The work beforehand really helps an event run smoothly and helps everyone feel welcomed. Through those small details, we are able to see the creativity of the community and live into mutual belonging together.
How can people be supporting you and your work?
Please pray for our community members who will be coming on retreat, especially those coming for the first time. Making the steps from online community to an in-person event can be a vulnerable step in one’s journey.
Serra's role is funded through our generous Monthly Mission Partners (Staff MMP program). Want to join Serra's support team? Click here to donate today, and write her name in the comment box!
We love seeing the beloved and unrepeatable talents of our Community and Pastoral Team during our Retreat TalenTED show! What would you do for TalenTED?
Many of my talents are tactile, like cooking/baking/crafting, but maybe one day I will make a ceramic piece for everyone on retreat!
If you could go on a Community Weekend, a kind of “family vacation” with your Hearth Group, to ANYWHERE in the world, where would you want to go?
Our Appatlantic Hearth group (East Coast USA) has had the best time exploring Pittsburgh and NYC together. We can have fun anywhere! If I had to choose, I would like to go to Rome or Assisi with them. Those are two of my favorite places to visit, and I think many of my fellow Hearth Group members would love them too.
It’s time for Toasts! When we raise a glass to celebrate God’s Graces in our lives, what bevvy are you lifting up?
An iced coffee with lavender and a splash of cream :)
What’s your favorite piece of EI gear?
I really like the crewneck with “The unrepeatable ones” on it. It provides a great reminder to myself and everyone who sees it that we are all beloved and unrepeatable!
We love building playlists for each year’s Retreat theme– what music is on your playlists?
I like a mix of indie/folk style music with some pop and Christian artists for my prayer time. Right now I’m listening to Mumford & Sons, Olivia Dean, Jess Ray, Johnnyswim, Taylor Swift, Hozier, & The National Parks.