MEET OUR DIRECTORS

Sister Barbara Breaud, O. Carm. is the Center's  Executive Director.  Sister Barbara is well known in Lacombe having served as director for fourteen years when the Center was known as Blessing Place, a sabbatical and renewal program for religious. Sister Barbara was a religion, mathematics and science teacher. She served as coordinator of direct services and adult education in the St. Thomas Housing Project at Hope House in New Orleans. She also served as Executive Councilor and Assistant to the President of the Congregation. In addition to her role as Executive Director, Sister Barbara now serves as Director of Initial and On-Going Formation for the Sisters of Mount Carmel.

Sister Terry Falco, RSM  is Program Director for groups and individuals who come to use the center. Sister Terry was on staff when the Center was Blessing Place. She holds a master's degree in Liturgy and was the Liturgical Consultant for Sacred Heart Church in Lacombe, LA and Holy Family Church in Luling, LA.

Sister Lena Collins brings energy and enthusiasm to her position as the Center's House Director. Sister Lena is a registered nurse who spent eleven years as a missionary in Liberia and Ivory Coast, Africa. She has cared for the elderly and has done social service ministry to the poor of central Alabama. Sister Lena is also in charge of our gift shop.

Sister Margaret Safford, O. Carm. is part of the center's Support Staff. Sister Margaret may also be a familiar face in Lacombe. She served alongside Sister Barbara Breaud for 14 years as house manager, spiritual director and teacher when the center was known as Blessing Place. In addition to teaching at Catholic schools for 25 years she has served as Assistant to the President and as President of the Congregation.

Sister Josephine Deveras, O. Carm. is part of the center's Support Staff. Sister's past ministry work includes teaching at Mount Carmel Academy in New Orleans and Cathedral Carmel in Lafayette as well as retreat work in Louisiana and the Philippines. Along with her position at the center, Sister Josephine also ministers to the Filipina people in the greater New Orleans area.

Mary Lewis serves in food service and preparation of the Center for guests. Mary worked 14 years at Carmel Center Retreat House and returned in March, 2004 to the Carmelite Spirituality Center. She has served as a cook and housekeeper for over 18 years. Mary is a mother of 3, grandmother of 9 and great-grandmother of 6.