CHRIS STEFANICK

Chris Stefanick is an internationally acclaimed author, speaker, and television host who has devoted his life to sharing the love of Jesus, and helping others do the same. His live seminars, TV, radio, and video ministry have reached millions, and his educational initiatives are turning the tide in the Church. He authored a confirmation prep program that’s been used by over a million people, the popular SEARCH program and most recently released another bestseller, Living Joy. He is the founder and president of Real Life Catholic, a non-profit organization that makes his initiatives for renewal a reality.  Above all, he’s proud to be husband to Natalie and father to their six children, and five grandchildren! 

FR. GASTON MENDIOLA-ARROYO

Father Gaston Mendiola, originally from Veracruz, Mexico, is the second of three brothers. Raised as a Jehovah’s Witness after his parents left the Catholic Church, he rediscovered his faith at 14 and began discernment for a religious vocation. He emigrated to Ciudad Juárez and then California, where he was involved in Youth for Christ and parish evangelization in the Diocese of Orange. He also worked in Mexicali to support addiction recovery programs.

Father Mendiola completed his seminary studies at the Hispanic seminary of Santa Maria de Guadalupe in Mexico City and was welcomed into the Diocese of Orange by Bishop Kevin Vann. After serving as a seminarian and deacon at Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Habra, he was ordained and served as parochial vicar at St. Vincent de Paul Parish and La Purísima Parish. He currently expresses joy in returning to Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Habra, a parish he deeply loves and looks forward to serving the community with dedication.

SR. TERESA

Sister Teresa Thu Hong Dao, raised in a devout Catholic family with eight siblings, entered the Congregation of the Lovers of the Holy Cross of Los Angeles in 2002. She made her first vows in 2006 and her perpetual vows in 2011. 

She chose this congregation due to its charism and spirituality, aiming to imitate Jesus Christ Crucified through contemplation, sacrifice, and service, particularly toward women and children in need. Sister Teresa builds her life around the love of the Crucified Jesus, believing that each day is an opportunity for personal growth. 

Her mission is to share Christ’s unconditional love, especially with those in the Confirmation Program, fostering a sense of unity as one true family. Grounded in prayer and service, she prays for everyone to recognize their identity as children of God and strive for holiness. Currently, Sister Teresa serves as a Confirmation Coordinator at St. Bonaventure Church, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community with love, and humbly asks for prayers and support to fulfill her mission.