Our Volunteers

Catherine (Cate) Broadbent

Blogmistress

Hi, I’m Cate! I’m newly married and living in the beautiful state of Colorado. I’ve had the joy of volunteering with Leonie’s Longing for a number of years—writing blog posts, creating content for social media, and most recently, serving as blogmistress.

I grew up in Ohio and jumped into consecrated life right out of high school. Over the next decade I would serve both in the US and in Mexico, doing family ministry and media evangelization. I was fearful and uncertain about the choice to leave my community; however, I am now grateful to have taken that step. The challenge of the transition led me to discover the Leonie’s Longing community. I love connecting with other women who share similar experiences, and I hope I can be an encouragement to others as well.

The Lord has continued to nurture my adventurous spirit, leading me to Peru, Louisiana, then to Colorado—after meeting my now-husband online at the height of the pandemic. Strong coffee, a good mystery novel, long bike rides, and playing my violin—these are a few of my favorite things.

Michaela Andrews

Virtual Event Coordinator

Hi! I’m Michaela and I’m one of the very-enthusiastic-Leonie’s-Longing-volunteers. I coordinate virtual events like Lectio Divina or mini-retreats, occasionally write for the blog, and help out with other tasks as opportunities arise. What I most enjoy about volunteering with Leonie’s Longing is witnessing the transforming love God has for each of His daughters and experiencing His fidelity to His promise that He is always with us.

I lived monastic life for two years and leaving was very difficult. It was such a consolation to find fellowship, understanding, and support through Leonie’s Longing. I continue to delight in how my sisters in Christ continue to encourage and inspire me along this pilgrimage home. I’m currently studying mechanical engineering and in my free time I enjoy hiking, cross country skiing, playing French horn, spending time with my family, and lingering in the chapel for a few extra minutes to smile at Jesus.

Rose

Database and Survey Administrator

I grew up in a big Catholic family, but I didn’t really learn the faith till my mid-twenties, when I developed a devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and pretty much fell in love with Him! My years in religious life were very formative for me. Now I am very blessed to volunteer with Leonie’s Longing by helping out with the database and receiving survey responses. In my professional life, I teach English to adult refugees and other immigrants, and I also help out with Chinese to English (and vice versa) translation projects, mostly as a copy-editor. All my work gives me a lot of joy! But what really makes me tick is daily Mass and adoration. He is my Best Friend, and because of Him, I have met so many of His other beloved friends through Leonie’s Longing!

Ryan Haber

Job and Career Coach

Ryan Haber is a Maryland native. Since leaving Mt. St. Mary’s Seminary, he has worked in software development even though his only degree is a B.A. in history. Ryan manages software development teams that develop technical products intended for use by other developers. In his free time, he hikes with his dog and lifts weights, but he especially enjoys helping others find their way in the world of secular work.

Learn more about Ryan’s work for Leonie’s Longing at https://leonieslonging.org/2018/09/14/introducing-career-coaching/