sanctuary for your Soul
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PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Amanda Zurface Appointed Executive Director of Mount Saint Francis Center for Spirituality
Mount Saint Francis, Indiana – December 10, 2024: The Board of Directors of Mount Saint Francis Center for Spirituality is thrilled to announce the appointment of Amanda Zurface, JCL, as the new Executive Director. With nearly two decades of dedicated service to the Catholic Church, Amanda embodies a deep spiritual commitment, extensive experience, and a fervent passion for advancing the mission of Mount Saint Francis.
"The Board Members of Mount St. Francis Center for Spirituality have prayed and discerned through the search process, and now joyfully welcome Amanda Zurface as the Executive Director of the Center for Spirituality,” said Friar Mario L. Serrano, OFM Conv., Secretary of Mount St. Francis Center for Spirituality Board, “Amanda is a qualified candidate with twenty years of leadership experience within the Church and a deep commitment to spiritual formation. She is confident in her ability to contribute to the Mount St. Francis Center for Spirituality's mission and growth. We believe she will guide the Center for Spirituality and the staff in upholding and promoting the Franciscan charism."
"I am honored to serve in this role and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the rich legacy of the Mount in service to Christ and the Church," Amanda shared.
Amanda’s career is a testament to fostering spiritual growth and addressing the pastoral needs of individuals, families, and communities. Her ministry reflects vital areas such as Catholic Social Teaching and the Gospel’s call to love and mercy. She has compassionately supported survivors of sexual abuse, guided individuals through the marriage tribunal process, and collaborated with bishops and Church leaders on initiatives that strengthen faith and community. Over the past four years, Amanda has provided spiritual direction to countless women, helping them encounter Christ and embrace the sacramental life of the Church amidst life's joys and challenges.
As Executive Director, Amanda’s vision is deeply rooted in the Catholic-Franciscan values defining Mount Saint Francis. Her immediate priorities are:
• Developing a strategic plan to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.
• Building a healthy and vibrant team culture at the Center.
• Expanding programming to meet the evolving spiritual and pastoral needs of the community.
• Strengthening partnerships with local parishes, dioceses, and organizations to broaden outreach.
Amanda and her team are also planning the 50th-anniversary celebrations of the Center in 2026, honoring the Mount’s rich history while inspiring future growth and providing sacred opportunities for attendees to encounter God and one another.
"As Mount Saint Francis Center for Spirituality approaches its 50th anniversary, the Franciscan Friars Conventual of the Province of Our Lady of Consolation eagerly anticipate collaborating with Amanda Zurface, our Executive Director, and offer our prayers as she transitions into this role," added Friar Mario.
Amanda’s academic credentials include dual bachelor's degrees in Theology and Social Justice, a licentiate and master’s degree in Canon Law, and certification in Spiritual Direction. She currently serves as the diocesan postulator for the cause of Sister Annella Zervas, OSB, reflecting her commitment to spiritual formation and renewal.
The Board of Directors is confident that Amanda’s experience, lived faith, and leadership skills will usher Mount Saint Francis Center for Spirituality into an inspiring new chapter. Together with the Center’s team, she will continue to provide sacred spaces for prayer, reflection, and growth for all who seek it.
About Mount Saint Francis Center for Spirituality: Mount Saint Francis Center for Spirituality offers a welcoming environment for spiritual renewal, serving individuals and groups through retreats, events, and programs. Rooted in Catholic-Franciscan values, the Center is dedicated to nurturing the soul and inspiring a deeper connection with God. Learn more at mountsaintfrancis.org.
Media Contact:
Brie Schoen
Office Manager and Social Media Coordinator
Mount Saint Francis Center for Spirituality
812-923-8817
[email protected] -
