Staff Member
Lina Calabrese
Director of Faith Formation
My name is Carmelina, though many know me as Lina, and I am both honored and grateful to serve as the Director of Faith Formation at St. John Paul the Great Parish. Each year is a new and meaningful chapter in my personal journey of faith as I continue growing closer to God while answering His call to teach, guide, and share the Catholic faith with others. I am excited to walk this journey alongside our students and families and look forward to a wonderful year together.
As a proud Torrington native, my professional background includes healthcare administration, education, and leadership. For more than 40 years, I have been blessed to serve in Faith Formation ministry, partnering with parents and families as they nurture and strengthen their children’s relationship with Christ and His Church. Our Catholic faith is a precious gift that brings guidance, hope, strength, joy, and peace to our daily lives. It is my sincere hope that every child in our program feels the love of God and the comfort of knowing they are never alone, for Christ walks beside us each day.
My love for religious education began during my freshman year of high school when I volunteered as a catechist alongside Sister Annette D’Antonio, teaching first-grade students. The following year, I became more involved in parish life by assisting in the office, and from that moment, my passion for ministry and faith formation continued to grow. Looking back, I truly believe God was guiding me every step of the way and calling me to dedicate my life to Catholic education and service.
I earned a Certificate in Religious Education and later received a Bachelor of Science degree. I am currently continuing my education while pursuing my MBA. I look forward to using both my professional experience and lifelong dedication to faith formation to support and serve the families of our parish community.
One of my favorite quotes from Mother Teresa is:
“I know God will not give me anything I can’t handle. I just wish that He didn’t trust me so much.”
In my free time, I enjoy scrapbooking, serving on the board of Carolyn’s Place, and most importantly spending time with Yogi, my family, and friends.
Please feel free to introduce yourself at any time — I would truly love the opportunity to meet and talk with you.
God bless you, keep you, and love you!
Lina Calabrese