We Bid Farewell with Blessings to Carolyn Ell
Carolyn Ell : Called To Serve In Pensacola-Tallahassee
“Our charitable giving impacts the marginalized of the community. Charity is an outpouring of love which helps those seeking our assistance. The work of the staff and volunteers of the Diocese of Orlando affects many lives every day. From hundreds of families being fed, to providing the sacraments, we impact our community. It is through our charity that we can reach out to those we encounter and show them God’s mercy, no matter who they are or where they come from.” – Carolyn Ell
We recently received the news that our own Carolyn Ell would be leaving us but the news was both saddening and joyous at the same time. The Lord truly does work in mysterious ways and it turns out that both Carolyn and her husband David’s talents are needed in a not so distant diocese. David has accepted the position of Chief Operating Officer for the Catholic Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee and Carolyn will also be sharing her talents with the faithful there.
Serving first as a Senior Accountant and then a Stewardship Director, Carolyn was a wonderful addition to the Foundation team and embraced our collaborative and servant leadership culture as an organization while enhancing it wherever she saw an opportunity. We are appreciative of all she’s accomplished serving our mission and the talents she shared with us. We know she will continue to serve our Church in her new home. Carolyn was asked to reflect upon her time with the Foundation before her last day.
What attracted you to work at the Catholic Foundation?
I first learned about the Foundation while working in the Chancery for Shared Services. As a liaison for the parishes during the launch of the 2018 Our Catholic Appeal campaign, I attended several luncheons and met members of the Foundation team. I was impressed by their fellowship and focus of serving the parishes of the Diocese as servant leaders.
When a position came available as a Senior Accountant, I was excited at the opportunity to be a part of this incredible team as well as being able to share my experience in accounting and finance. This year I transitioned to the Community Service team as a Stewardship Director. I enjoy working with the parishes and schools in support of their capital campaigns.
How would you describe our culture here in three words?
Family, passion, commitment
What will you miss most about your time with us?
I will miss the many wonderful people I have met, both within the Foundation, the Chancery, and throughout the Diocese. From each of these I have learned more about my faith and how to be a true servant to those around me. Thank you for your friendship and support.
What is your hope for the future of the Foundation?
I pray for the success of the Foundation and its continued growth in service to the Diocese and the community.
What did you love most about the hearts of the parishioners throughout the Diocese of Orlando?
As a fellow parishioner, we are all on the same journey to live faith-filled lives in service to God and our community. The heart of parishioners in this diocese are the epitome of this calling and have inspired me to fully live my faith and not to miss an opportunity to serve those around me.
What is your fondest memory during your time with us?
All the times when our team came together in service to the community are special to me. I have enjoyed this fabulous team and am inspired by the times we worked together to meet the needs of the parishes and schools of the diocese. Some of my fondest memories were the Our Catholic Appeal luncheons where we were able to meet with the priests and business managers of each deanery.
If you had to give any advice to a parish embarking on a campaign, what would it be?
My best advice would be to allow the Holy Spirit to guide the parish in discerning its greatest needs. Secondly, leverage the expertise of the Foundation in order to achieve the desired goals.
What are you most proud of in regard to your work at the Foundation?
I came to work at the diocese because I wanted to work in service to the Church. I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given that have pushed me to deepen my faith and love of God. My hope is that this faith and love are present in all that I have done and in every interaction I had with my team and those around the Diocese.”
What advice would you offer up to the Foundation?
The Catholic Foundation has a wonderful environment with a great team who work hard to support the many parishes, schools, and ministries throughout the Diocese. The heart of our mission is the practice of our faith in service to the community. With this as a focus, you will follow the calling to be the face of Christ to all we meet.
We are grateful for Carolyn’s selfless commitment to the people of our diocese and wish her and her family peace, wellness, and happiness as they continue to answer the call of service.