quiet hero

Our Gospel this week challenges us with a counter-­cultural idea – “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself with be exalted.” In our world today where there is so much emphasis placed on titles and accolades, how do we humble ourselves and serve those around us?

We can always look to the saints. One favorite is St. Therese of Lisieux, “The Little Flower.” St. Therese wrote, “What matters in life is not great deeds, but great love.” She lived a life of attention to others. She believed in living as one flower among all the other flowers in God’s garden. 

From time to time we encounter people who, like our saints, inspire us. Over the past seven years, I’ve been blessed to work alongside someone who embodies this spirit of love, service, and humility in everything she does. While it is a daunting task to encapsulate who she is in a few short paragraphs, I am excited to celebrate quiet hero – Mrs. Liz Loll – retired St. Mary Magdalen School Vice Principal and Padre Serra parishioner and active volunteer.   

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​The first time I met Liz, I remember being struck by how genuinely warm and friendly she was. In our conversation as we walked across the school campus, I could immediately tell that she was someone who loved what she did and shared that love with all those around her.

Liz had an amazing ability to seemingly be everywhere at once and always be in exactly the right place at exactly the right time to lend a hand. Whether it was a student who needed a little TLC or a parent who needed some sage advice or even a principal who needed a listening ear, Liz was always there with a cheerful attitude and a kind word. Never looking for recognition or praise. At school Liz was a visible and tangible sign of God’s love; the love that he has for each one of us. 

One of her favorite roles was sharing her Catholic faith with our students. Whether teaching in the classroom, helping eighth graders with service at Many Meals, or preparing students to lead the community during weekly Mass, Liz was and is a beacon of faith to everyone around her. 

Even though she retired from her daily responsibilities at the school last June, she is still very much involved at our school, parish and in our greater Camarillo community. Liz embodies the words of Mother Teresa who said, “Do small things with great love.” Liz serves those around her with great love, in her own beautiful and humble way. 

Please join me in thanking and celebrating our friend and hero, Liz Loll! 

Siempre Adelante,
Mike Ronan, Principle
Saint Mary Magdalen School
November 5

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