Café Catholica

Hello everyone my name is Carlos Reyna. I graduated from the University of Houston and been attending St Mary Magdalene for about a year now. I love baseball, audiobooks, and going to concerts. What I love most about the church is how it brings together people across all cultures and paths of life. Fun fact about me, I still play Pokémon GO.
 
Hello everyone, my name is Cristian Rivera. I graduated from the University of St. Thomas and work as an accountant. St. Mary Magdalene is my home parish, and I have been attending since I was a child and even went to elementary school there. I enjoy singing, praying, and playing video games. What I love most about the Church, is the community God has built. I used to just go to Mass on Sundays, but once I got more involved, I really began to see how beautiful it is. Fun fact about me, I am currently in three choirs.
We are both part of the young adult ministry at St Mary Magdalene and looking forward to making new friends from the surrounding area.

Julie Moon is an engineer by training and studied social and religious science at Istituto International Mystici Corporis in Florence, Italy. She has more than 20 years of experience in mentoring and working with teens and young adults as a youth coordinator of the Focolare Movement. She believes and dedicates her life to building a worldwide community which thrives through encounter, dialogue and inclusion. She has young adults very close to her heart and wishes to journey together with them in their intellectual and spiritual life. She attends Christ the King Parish in Houston.
 
Originally from Chicago very close to where Pope Leo grew up, Bill Neu has already lived two full life spans of a young adult, in community as a consecrated member of the Focolare. Over these years, he has worked in international finance and studied Theology and Philosophy. He has worked closely with the Vatican dicastery for interreligious dialogue for the Catholic Church's dialogue with faithful of other religions. 

Gui’s bio: I am a consecrated member of the Focolare Movement and regularly attend Christ the King Church in the Heights. I love the Catholic Church for its faithful transmission of Christ's teachings and its synodal journey, and I appreciate young adult ministries as places of authentic fellowship and growth in faith. I enjoy reading, walking, spending time with people, and contemplating the beauty of nature. I also love cooking because I believe that gathering around the table is a special opportunity to build fraternity and a true sense of family. 
 
Claire’s bio: I am a consecrated member of the Focolare Movement, and I live in the community house here in Houston. I attend All Saints Parish and sing in the choir there. I love music, movies, and spending time outdoors. I studied physical therapy and I work in a clinic in the Heights. Each day, I interact with many different people, immersed in today’s society, yet contemplating God’s work in every situation. I love being able to encounter Christ in all those I meet, and discovering how all of our unique gifts and talents build up the Church, the body of Christ. 

We met at the end of last year during a Focolare Movement gathering in Rome. Today, in Houston, we work together to support the Young Adult community, sharing the joy of serving, building community, and growing together in faith. 

Howdy! My name is Tim Ross, I currently attend St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in The Woodlands, TX. I am originally from Evergreen, Colorado and moved to Texas in 2012. I am a convert to the Catholic Church and I entered the church in 2013 during my sophomore year in high school. I attended Texas A&M University for my degree in History and attended the University of North Texas for my Masters in Library Science. I am currently in between jobs. My hobbies are that I do living history for the the Texas Revolution, Republic of Texas, and early statehood. I enjoy reading about history, the saints, and the faith during my free time. My favorite band is Pink Floyd and current favorite artist is Raye. My favorite movie is psychological thrillers due to them making you second guess everything plus a huge Star Wars fan also. I’ve known Matt for five years from the Young Adult group at St. Anthony of Padua. My favorite thing about the church is the history of the church through the saints and the liturgy. I am a very big liturgy nerd and know random facts about it. My number one favorite saint is St. John Paul II and was able to go to Poland and see where he grew up in 2024. I look forwarding to be with y’all in the next few weeks with Café Catholica!
 
My name is Matt Sibal. I grew up in The Woodlands since 2000 and pretty grew up here my whole life. I have been going to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church since they did mass at Oak Ridge. I have been involved in the Young Adult Ministry for the past 5 years and have been coordinated for the past two years . I am also involved in Bayou Awakening and recently went to an ACTS retreat. In my free time I enjoy working out, watching anime, being with my girlfriend, and fishing. 

Jithesh and Patrick are excited to welcome young adults from across Houston for coffee, conversation, and authentic community. Between them, they enjoy pickleball, improv comedy, theology, travel, great food, and exploring Houston. Patrick is a Kentucky-raised cradle Catholic who rediscovered his faith in college. He studied geology in graduate school and works as a project manager for a startup. Jithesh is a senior research scientist and bioengineer developing cancer therapeutics. He affirmed his Catholic faith after investigating various Christian denominations in graduate school. They both love the Church for its timeless truths, rich traditions, reverence for beauty, and the gift of the sacraments. Whether you’re new to Houston, new to the faith, or just looking for community, all are welcome to join them to learn, grow, and discover how the Lord is working in our everyday lives.

Nathan and Robert are both cradle Catholics and second time facilitators for the Café Connect series. Nathan is originally from Louisiana and attends St. Joseph Catholic Church. Robert grew up in Houston and attends St. Andrew Kim Taegon Catholic Church. They are looking forward to discussing what it means to rest in Jesus while still carrying your cross.

Hi! We’re Vicky Lopez and Luis Del Cid, and we’re excited to serve as Café Connect facilitators! 
Vicky is a pediatric nurse at Texas Children’s Hospital and has been an active member of Jóvenes de Luz for the past nine months. She brings over 10 years of experience serving and mentoring young adults through her parish, St. Louis Catholic Church in Winnie, Texas, in the Diocese of Beaumont, where she has volunteered with health fairs and retreats for adolescents and young adults.
 
Luis is an active member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Houston, where he serves as a sacristan for the Spanish Ministry. He’s married to his amazing wife and is the proud father of four wonderful kids so life is busy, a little loud, and always full of blessings! He is also an active member of Jóvenes de Luz, previously served as the group’s coordinator, and has been part of the Café Connect and Café Catholica teams, serving as a facilitator in previous years.
 
We’re looking forward to meeting everyone at Café Connect and growing together in faith, friendship, and community!

Mi cofacilitadora, Daniela, y yo nos conocimos en el grupo Jóvenes de Luz en san Vicente de Paúl en el 2025. Disfruto mucho leer, hacer manualidades y jugar con mi perrito Miku en mi tiempo libre. También estoy en un equipo de speed puzzling y asistimos a torneos donde nos toca experimentar con rompecabezas muy retadores contrarreloj! Lo que más me gusta del ministerio de jóvenes adultos es que siempre te topas con gente distinta y amable con las que puedes compartir tu fe y seguir creciendo espiritualmente.
 
My cofacilitator, Daniela, and I meet at the Jóvenes de Luz young adult group at St Vicente de Paul in 2025. I really enjoy reading, doing arts and crafts, and playing with my dog Miku in my spare time. I'm also in speed puzzling team and we attend tournaments where we get to do challenging puzzles against the clock! What I like most about the young adult ministry is that you always come across distinct, kind people who you can share your faith with and keep growing spiritually.

Mondays at 7:00 pm (St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, Msgr. Jamail Family Center): Jackie Hoyos & Miguel Padron (SPANISH)
 
Hola amigos, somos Jackie y Miguel! Nos conocimos aquí en este mismo grupo de Jóvenes de Luz, gracias a Café Connect hace un año. Los dos somos de México y somos bilingües. A Miguel le encanta participar en la música de adoración y a Jackie le encanta enseñar a los niños en el catecismo. Estamos muy emocionados de poder ser parte de sus veranos. ❤️‍

 
Soy Kelly y pertenezco al grupo Jóvenes de Luz. Me gusta ayudar a los demás. Estar con mi familia en Guatemala me da la alegría de poder crear memorias y explorar nuevos lugares.
Hello! I'm a physician from Mexico and a proud member of St. Vincent de Paul Church through Jovenes de Luz.
When I'm not talking medicine, you'll probably find me on the football field, diving into a gaming session, customizing mechanical keyboards, or reading about history, philosophy, and geopolitics. I'm also a huge fan of Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, and Game of Thrones—so whether it's debating Middle-earth lore or discussing the rise and fall of empires, I'm always up for a good conversation.

Fun fact: I played semi-professional football and even made the selection cut for Tigres FC. So, if there's a pickup game, count me in!

Looking forward to getting to know everyone!

Patricia Vásquez es originaria de Veracruz, México, y desde hace siete años forma parte de la comunidad Jóvenes de Luz de la parroquia San Vicente de Paúl en Houston, donde sirve con el deseo de acompañar a otros jóvenes en su encuentro con Dios.
 
También participa como facilitadora en Radio María, en el programa Jóvenes Brillando en la Oscuridad, compartiendo su testimonio de fe y promoviendo un mensaje de esperanza. Convencida de que Dios transforma corazones a través de la fraternidad, el servicio y el amor, continúa poniendo sus dones al servicio de la Iglesia y de su comunidad.
 
My name is Maribel, and I’m part of Jóvenes de Luz - Hispanic Young Adult Ministry at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Houston, TX. I enjoy serving alongside others, planning group adventures, and creating spaces where young adults can build meaningful friendships rooted in faith.

One of my favorite things about the Catholic Church is how it brings people together from different backgrounds while helping us grow closer to Christ. 

My hobbies include pickle ball, salsa dancing, and discovering new restaurants around the city. 

Hi! We’re Zac and Alex—lifelong friends and now fellow catechists/volunteers at St. Thomas Aquinas in Sugar Land. Zac graduated from Marquette University and spent five years as a missionary in developing countries; he’s passionate about catechesis, music, and good conversations especially with coffee or sour gummy worms in hand. Alex has grown up at St. Thomas and now works at the parish full time; she studied art at the University of Houston and loves concerts, gaming, spending time with loved ones, and serving with joy. We first met in middle school through Youth for Christ and playing tennis and have been walking in faith together ever since. We’re excited to journey with you and look forward to growing together in faith and community!

Emily is a NASA engineer who codes for space exploration! Nathaniel is a second-year medical student at A&M's EnMed program. They are both board game fanatics, tennis enthusiasts, and coffee shop connoisseurs. (Ask Nathaniel to play a pick-up game of chess or Catan)
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When it comes to the faith, Nathaniel loves diving deep into apologetics and the wisdom of the Church Fathers. Emily is passionate about building authentic community and fellowship. They can't wait to bring their mix of science, medicine, and faith to Café Connect!

I’m Micarla, originally from Brazil, a consecrated member of the Focolare Movement, and a parishioner at All Saints. I love coffee, the beach, books, Disney movies, and dancing. I’ve been involved in Young Adult Ministry for many years, and I’m passionate about walking with others as we grow in faith, build authentic friendships, and encounter Christ together.
I’m Bob, a parishioner of Christ the King and a consecrated layman in the Focolare Movement. I enjoy traveling, meeting new people, learning languages, trying new foods, and spending time outdoors — especially in the mountains. I’ve spent my life accompanying young people, and after moving to Houston six months ago, I’m grateful to continue that journey here. I want to discover together the amazing gifts God has in store for those who love him and love one another.

We’re looking forward to getting to know each of you and growing together in faith, friendship, and God’s love.

Hello everyone! We’re Clarissa and Klarissa, the leader and co-leader of OYA (Oblate Young Adults) at Immaculate Heart of Mary near EaDo, Houston. We love creating a welcoming space where young adults can grow in faith, build genuine friendships, and find community to call home!  When we're not at church, you’ll usually find us grabbing tacos, coffee, or both! We’re also big soccer fans, and will be cheering for our favorite teams in the World Cup!   And yes, we’re both named Clarissa (one with a K, one with a C), so there’s always a 50/50 chance we both turn around when you call us.  Be there or be square—we can't wait to meet you! I've attached our photos and a picture of our location's exterior for reference! 
 
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns! We first met in middle school through Youth for Christ and playing tennis and have been walking in faith together ever since. We’re excited to journey with you and look forward to growing together in faith and community!

Howdy y’all! We are Kelli and Grant, two God-fearing, adventure-loving Catholics who are committed to bringing people together for deep conversations and forming lifelong friendships through Cafe Connect. As a recent convert, Grant enjoys exploring theology, discussing church history, and playing the drums. Kelli is a lifelong Catholic who loves living her faith, working out, and all things chocolate. We attend St. Michael the Archangel, where Kelli lectors and Grant assists with OCIA. We look forward to learning from everyone in our small group as we all grow closer to God together!

I attend St Joseph's parish and I went to Texas A&M University. My hobbies are pretty boring but I enjoy traveling, hanging out with my friends, and following politics as a sport. I enjoy the deep rich history and tradition of the Church and in youth ministry I love seeing people being able to truly connect who may have never had an ability to meet outside of that group and the great mosaic of folks that end up together each week both as a reflection of our Church and our community.
 
Hi, I'm Rory! I'm a ro-aming Catholic who has lived/worked/studied on 5 continents and when not on adventure, bounce between St Joseph's and St Theresa's parishes. My more domestic joys include horse riding, international cuisine, and plenty of time with cats! I love the community that young adult fellowship brings and the inspiration that each day has a unique calling
 
Rory and Ryan met in the young adult bible study at St Josephs and have known each other for several months.

Hi, my name is Rudy Gonzalez, a parishioner at St. Joseph’s. I am a Former engineer and now product manager. I am a musician by passion and always eager to learn new skills and try out new things.  
Howdy, my name is Joe Escamilla. I attend St. Joseph’s in Houston and am an Alumnus of UTSA with a degree in Criminal Justice.I like to play sports, spend time in nature, and grow in my faith with my friends as we strive for holiness and sainthood. 
 
We met last year and have a combined 5 plus years in Men’s ministry leadership and Formation. We currently participate in our parish young adult men’s group and we have a passion for young adult mens ministry. We look forward to giving a space for young adult men to open up and talk about their faith. Come join us as we grow together in virtue during this Cafe Catholica and discover the men God has called us to be.

Matthew and River are both parishioners at Mary Queen and we met via the parish’s young adult ministry a year ago and have been friends since. We’ve both have a passion for serving young adults both within our parish and with the whole Archdiocese; leading discussion groups, attending YA leadership courses, and even serving on retreats. River enjoys making rosaries, going fishing and enjoying fun facts (Exhibit A: Did you know that Hanno (Italian: Annone; c. 1510- 8 June 1516) was the pet white elephant given by King Manuel I of Portugal to Pope Leo X at his coronation. He was named Annon and Hanno after the Malayalam Word Aana (ആന) meaning Elephant). Matthew is an avid rock climber and is currently engaged and will be getting married to his fiancé Léa next year.

Hello! I'm Nathan Brunello. I'm a parishioner at St. Laurence in Sugar Land, and I'm a recent graduate from the University of Houston, where I studied geology. Since childhood I've wanted to become a paleontologist, and as I've studied geology, I've developed a deeper appreciation of God's creation and providence. I love how God is present to His people through His mystical body, the Catholic Church, and I look forward to sharing in God's gifts with y'all!
 
Hey y'all my name is JP, I'm 25 years old and I go to St. Elizabeth Anne Seton! I'm very involved in their young adult group and help as one of their volunteer leaders. I've been working as an electrician for 5 years and when I'm not working or doing things at SEAS I love to cook, work on my car or any other project I can think of. I have to give the young adult ministry here at SEAS credit for my coming back to the church, I was raised as a cradle catholic but didn't actually start getting involved until I joined the young adult ministry