Search Results

BE ROOTED. Simone Rizkallah Catholic Speaker and Writer I am a Catholic speaker and writer with a passion for helping people find a more meaningful existence. As a first generation American of Egyptian-Armenian descent, I consider myself a "cultural gypsy" – Western born and educated, but raised in an Eastern ethnic and cultural context. This combination has given me unique insight into the challenges and importance of finding one’s place of belonging in this world. In both speaking and writing, I draw from my experience and education to help people become more rooted: in their Faith, heritage, story, and calling. 01. Speaking Looking for an event speaker? I'd love to serve your community. You can watch videos of my past presentations by clicking below. Talks & Interviews 02. Writing Looking for a writer? I'm your gal! You can explore my areas of expertise and past publications by clicking below. Published Articles "To be rooted is perhaps the most important and least recognized need of the human soul." -SIMONE WEIL My Story Hear more of Teresa Thank you Simone, for sharing the profound richness and hidden gems of our Catholic Faith! Monica I love Simone’s take on the subjects she dissects. Not only is she very knowledgeable but her understanding and applying the spiritual principles to our day to day is very valuable. William Thank you so much for speaking truth and upholding the dignity and worth of womanhood and the beauty of God's created order for both sexes. CLIENTS "Could there be a better light for us, as nomadic beings, than the one that sets us free to go forward without fear, because we know that the light of eternal love stands at the end of the road?" -JOSEPH CARDINAL RATZINGER FEATURED ARTICLES The Armenian Genocide and the Crisis in Nagorno Karabakh 38 0 Post not marked as liked Why We Need the Feminine Genius 17 0 Post not marked as liked Leisure in the Life of a Christian 19 0 Post not marked as liked More Articles Contact Me Interested in booking me to speak at your event or write for your publication? Send me a message below! First name Last name Email address Message Send Thanks for submitting!

Upcoming Speaking Engagements Come out and hear me speak at one of the upcoming events listed below March for the Martyrs 2024 Sat, Apr 27 National Mall Apr 27, 2024, 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT National Mall, Washington, DC, USA Apr 27, 2024, 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT National Mall, Washington, DC, USA Simone will present a talk at this event on her experiences as a first generation American from Egyptian-Armenian extraction. Register GIVEN Catholic Young Women's Leadership Forum Sat, Jun 08 The Catholic University of America Jun 08, 2024, 4:00 PM EDT – Jun 12, 2024, 1:00 PM EDT The Catholic University of America, 620 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20064, USA Jun 08, 2024, 4:00 PM EDT – Jun 12, 2024, 1:00 PM EDT The Catholic University of America, 620 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20064, USA Simone is honored to be a speaker on the Spiritual Maternity Panel on June 9 of this event. Register Lumen Christi Institute Speaker Series Tue, Jul 30 Christ Cathedral Campus Jul 30, 2024, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM PDT Christ Cathedral Campus, 13280 Chapman Ave, Garden Grove, CA 92840, USA Jul 30, 2024, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM PDT Christ Cathedral Campus, 13280 Chapman Ave, Garden Grove, CA 92840, USA Simone will be the July speaker for this monthly series and will present a talk on “The Loneliness Epidemic: A Catholic Response to the Crisis.” Register

SIMONE RIZKALLAH Curriculum Vitae ​ Academic Studies & Affiliations ​ Jewish-Armenian Friendship Council Member, 2024—present Eparchy of Our Lady of Nareg, Episcopal appointee, Eparchial Directors of Religious Education of the USCCB, 2021-2023 Institute of Catholic Theology, Board member, 2022-2023 Tertio Millennio Seminar on the Free Society Fellow, Ethics & Public Policy Center, Krakow, Poland July 2019 Institute of Catholic Theology Fellow, Fall 2017-Present International Theological Institute (ITI), The Phoenix Institute, Trumau, Austria, Summer 2013 St. Albert the Great Center for Scholastic Studies, Norcia, Italy, Summer 2011 Gailliot Fellow, Acton Institute and Acton University 2009, Grand Rapids, MI, 2009 Witherspoon Fellowship/John Jay Institute Fellow, Washington, DC, 2004 Education ​ MA, Christendom Graduate School, Theological Studies (Systematic Theology) Magna Cum Laude , 2010 BA, California Lutheran University, Marketing Communication, Summa Cum Laude , 2003 (Honors, Dean’s List, Departmental Distinction Awards); Minor in Drama​ Academic Experience Faculty member, The Avila Institute , Montgomery, AL, 2021-Present Teach courses for Spiritual Formation (e.g. On the Christian Meaning of Suffering) and for the High Calling Program for Priestly Discernment Faculty member, Institute of Catholic Theology , Phoenix, AZ, 2017-Present Teach a variety of courses related to theology, history, education and spiritual formation Senior Theology Teacher & Theology Department Chair, St. Mary’s Catholic High School , Phoenix, AZ, 2013-2019 Taught Church History & Moral Theology courses Speaking Engagements ​ ​Teach Me Oh Lord “Ecce Homo: Conversion Stories & A Call To Prayer” Conference Avila Institute March 21-23, 2024 ​ Two Notions of Leisure: Resting in the Lord v. Restless Consumption Institute for Human Ecology February13, 2024 ​ Be the Light: The Epidemic of Loneliness and the Eucharist & Moderator for Religious Freedom Panel Armenia Today, America Tomorrow SEEK24 Focus St. Louis, Missouri January 3, 2024 ​ Equipping the Next Generation: From Maintenance to Maturity (Preview Conversation) ICT Alumni/Student Association Breakfast Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ November 11, 2023 ​ The Epidemic of Loneliness & The Eucharist Wine & Wisdom at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church Phoenix, AZ November 10, 2023 ​ The Apostolate of the Laity (Apostolicam Actuositatem) The "Hour of the Laity" Conference Tepeyac Leadership Initiative Orange County, California November 2-5, 2023 ​ Nostra Aetate and the Future of Catholic-Jewish Relations at a Time of Rising Antisemitism Panelist Speaker (Panel Discussion 3 includes speakers, Rabbi Mark Gottlieb, Simone Rizkallah, and John Henry Crosby as the moderator. The Panel's discussion is titled: "Orthodox Communities Shoulder to Shoulder: Sustaining Faith, Family, and Community in a Hostile Age".) October 24-26, 2023 Franciscan University of Steubenville & The Philos Project ​ Teenagers & The Epidemic of Loneliness Faculty Presentation St. Monica's Academy in Montrose, California August 28, 2023 ​ The Spiritual Response to the Crisis: The Christian's Role in a Distracted Age A Special Webinar The Charles Malik Institute August 16, 2023 ​ The Cardinal Virtues—Courage & The Feminine Genius Mentors Presentation Fidelis August 8, 2023 ​ The Eucharist & The Epidemic of Loneliness San Francisco Eucharistic Congress St. Mary of the Assumption in San Francisco, CA June 10, 2023 ​ The Feminine Genius TLI National WOMEN'S Session on the Feminine Genius Tepeyac Leadership Institute June 6, 2023 ​ That They May Be One: Speaking with God from the Depths of the Heart A look at Armenia's faithful history and mysticism as a model for all Christians Legatus-Ventura Chapter June 5, 2023 ​ Sent On the Way Module -On Memory High Calling Program—Avila Institute May 24, 2023 ​ The Epidemic of Loneliness, Evangelization, and the Feminine Genius Breath of Spring Fundraiser Brunch Sacred Heart Retreat House in Alhambra, CA May 13, 2023 ​ Entering Into Holy Saturday: A Pathway for Healing “Ecce Homo: Prayer and the Paschal Mystery” Conference March 30-April 1, 2023 ​ "Introduction to Moral Theology," Retreat St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Phoenix, AZ February 19, 2023 The Catholic Church, Oppressor of Women? Catholic Answers Local Lectures San Diego, CA February 17, 2023 ​ Venerable Jan Tyranowski: The Most Influential Tailor in History Legatus-San Diego Chapter San Diego, CA February 16, 2023 ​ Holy Saturday & Healing Saint Anne's Young Adults Group San Diego, CA February 15, 2023 ​ "Recognize the Gifts You Have Been Given" The Given Institute & The Diocese of Orange Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA January 28, 2023 ​ You Are Called: Personal Vocation SEEK23 Focus St. Louis, Missouri January 2-6, 2023 ​ Leisure - Disposing one’s heart for Fiat Feminine Genius Circle Brunch Endow & Sisters of Life Denver, CO October 8, 2022 ​ The Body of Christ: Eucharistic and Ecclesial Communion in the Life of Church 2022 Catholic Answers Conference The Eucharist - I Am With You Always San Diego, CA September 22-25, 2022 ​ "The Feminine Genius" The Feminine Genius & Authentic Masculinity Love & Responsibility LA San Gabriel Region, California August 20,2022 ​ On The Christian Meaning of Suffering According to John Paul II Instructor for a 6 week course Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation July12-August16, 2022 ​ "Habit Building" Hallow Summit 2022 Hallow July 29-31 ​ "The Wholeness of Healing: Body, Soul, Spirit" Exclusive Avila Army Webinar Avila Institute July 19,2022 ​ "Encountering Holy Saturday" A New Era of Health Care: Reuniting Healing and Whole Health Christ Medicus Foundation June 15, 2022 ​ "Man Alive" 2022 Magnify Women's Conference World Ablaze, Inc. St. Mary's of the Annunciation parish Oakdale, CA June 11, 2022 ​ The Feminine Genius TLI National WOMEN'S Session on the Feminine Genius Tepeyac Leadership Institute June 7, 2022 ​ Missionary Discipleship Module High Calling Program—Avila Institute June 1, 2022 ​ Letter to Women Series The Given Institute May 2, 9, 16, 23, 2022 ​ The Vision For You: Discovering Your Personal Vocation Wine & Wisdom at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church Phoenix, AZ April 22, 2022 ​ Ut Unum Sint: Speaking with God from the Depths of the Heart A look at Armenia's faithful history and mysticism as a model for all Christians Legatus-Palos Verdes Chapter April 13, 2022 ​ Personal Vocation & The Feminine Genius Thomas Aquinas College April 7, 2022 ​ Personal Vocation, Edith Stein, and Spiritual Motherhood idND & The Edith Stein Project Notre Dame University in South Bend, IN March 19, 2022 ​ "Receive the Gift that You Are" The Given Institute & The Diocese of Orange Christ Cathedral in Garden Grace, CA March 12, 2022 ​ "Venerable Jan Tyranowski & the Carmelite Charism of John Paul II: How the mysticism of Jan Tyranowski—John Paul II’s youth minister—shaped his Carmelite spirituality and gave us history’s most Marian pope" Legatus-Ventura Chapter January 20, 2022 ​ Keynote Speaker & Lumen Gentium Award for Excellence in Education and Letters Boonton, NJ Our Lady of Mount Carmel School November 6, 2021 ​ "A Personal Vocation and the Feminine Genius" Personal Vocation & The Christian Woman Retreat Lincoln, NE Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House October 16, 2021 ​ "Man Alive" The Fiat Conference October 9, 2021 ​ The Risk of Education: A Method for Life & Happiness and the Intellectual Life Graduate Student Orientation 2021 Institute of Catholic Theology August 14, 2021 ​ Real Life Joseph Coaching On St. Joseph and the Flight to Egypt Real Life Catholic Begins June 17, 2021 ​ Loving Women As Christ Loves The Church TLI National WOMEN'S Session on the Feminine Genius Tepeyac Leadership Institute June 9, 2021 On The Christian Meaning of Suffering According to John Paul II Instructor for a 6 week course Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation May 4-June 8, 2021 ​ "Work of Our Hands" Breakout session emcee YCP 2021Conference Promo Young Catholic Professionals April 30-May 2, 2021 ​ John Paul II & The Feminine Genius Beauty, Arts, and the Feminine Genius Institute of Catholic Theology April 17, 2021 ​ St. Joseph and His Virtues Heroic Virtue Summit: The Virtues of St. Joseph Heroicmen.com March 27, 2021 ​ Edith Stein & Cultivating the True, the Good, and the Beautiful The Caritas Conference: Equipping Women For the War on Femininity March 19, 2021 ​ The Risk of Education: Discovering Our Ultimate Destiny by Father Luigi Giussani Book Club Guest Speaker Seton Teaching Fellows March 15, April 17, June 7, 2021 ​ The Prodigal Son: Lent Retreat The Maronite Servants of Christ the Light Dartmouth, MA March 7, 2021 ​ St. Agnes of Rome: The Witness of Early Christian Women Legatus-Ventura Chapter January 21, 2021 ​ Cultivating Leisure in Quarantine FemCatholic: Rest & Resilience in 2021 Summit January 16, 2021 Emmanuel: A Christmas Faire & Festival: "Hidden Saints for a Hidden God" Smart Catholics Virtual Event December 29-31, 2020 ​ "Venerable Jan Tyranowski & the Carmelite Charism of John Paul II: How the mysticism of Jan Tyranowski—John Paul II’s youth minister—shaped his Carmelite spirituality and gave us history’s most Marian pope" The Avila Institute Helena, AL (via teleconference) December 10, 2020 ​ "Venerable Jan Tyranowski: John Paul II's Youth Minister " The Institute of Catholic Theology Phoenix, AZ (via teleconference) December 5, 2020 ​ Called to be Holy Retreat: "The Universal Call to Holiness & Your Personal Vocation:What It Means to be a Christian" The Little Sisters of the Poor Denver, CO (via teleconference) November 13, 2020 ​ Modern Saints: Missions from God: "St. Edith Stein" Smart Catholics Virtual Event October 22-23, 2020 ​ Festival of Friendship 2020: "Four Saint Teresas: Boss Women Who Changed the World" Click here to view . (My talk on Edith Stein begins on Timestamp 39) The Revolution of Tenderness Pittsburgh, PA October 1, 2020 ​ "St. Edith Stein: A Model for Theology Students" The Institute of Catholic Theology and Franciscan University of Steubenville Phoenix, AZ (via teleconference) August 15, 2020 ​ "An Integrated Approach: How School Departments Can Build a Culture of Life Together" (click here to view) National Catholic Education Association Conference Baltimore, MD (via teleconference) April 7, 2020 ​ "Community: Essential to Interior Formation" Spiritual Life Conference 3 Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ (via teleconference) March 21, 2020 ​ "Avoiding the Sin of Gossip" 2020 Phoenix Catholic Women's Conference Phoenix, AZ February 22, 2020 ​ "Introduction to Moral Theology," Retreat St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Phoenix, AZ November 16, 2019 "The Primacy of Faith and Culture" Endow & Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Sacred Heart Retreat House, Alhambra, CA October 26, 2019 ​ "What It Means to Be a Christian" by Joseph Ratzinger Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ October 19, 2019 ​ "Pope St. John Paul II: Human Dignity and Social Justice" Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ August 3, 2019 "A Priest is Not His Own" by Bishop Fulton Sheen Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ February 5, 12, 19, March 5, 12, 19, 2019 "St. Jerome," Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ November 3, 2018 ​ "Studying Theology and the Spiritual Life" Theological Formation Program for the Institute of Catholic Theology Phoenix, AZ August 18, 2018 "Forming Authentic Community," University of Mary Summer Institute, Tempe, AZ June 23, 2018 ​ "St. Ambrose," Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ May 5,2018 ​ "Beauty," St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Phoenix, AZ April 22, 2018 ​ Introduction to Prayer,” St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Phoenix, AZ December 17, 2017 ​ “St. Bernard of Clairvaux,” Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ November 4, 2017 ​ “Christian Persecution in the Middle East,” St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church, Gilbert, AZ, Spring 2017 ​ “Current Plight of Christians in the Middle East,” Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ February 15, 2017 ​ “Persecution and the Middle East,” St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Phoenix, AZ October 2015 ​ “A Christian’s Relationship with Wealth,” Meal and Message, Tempe, AZ August 4, 2015 ​ “Catholic Social Teaching, Charitable Works, and the Charisms,” Maggie’s Place, Phoenix, AZ June 22, 2015 ​ “The Cross and the Beatitudes,” Institute of Catholic Theology, Phoenix, AZ March 15, 2015 ​ “Theology Q&A,” Grand Canyon University Catholics, Phoenix, AZ January 2015 ​ “Addressing the Needs of the Youth,” Lion of Design Podcast, Chantilly, VA August 8, 2014 ​ “The New Evangelization,” Catholics United for Faith, Phoenix, AZ December 14, 2014 ​ “The Charisms of the Holy Spirit,” Theology on Tap, Catholic Diocese of Arlington February 25, 2013 ​ "The Hook-up Culture," The Dennis Prager Radio Show, Dec. 4, 2003 Articles ​ Featured Alumna, “Graduate Alumna Brings Hope to Youth ,” Instaurare of Christendom College, Front Royal, VA July 29, 2014 ​ Featured Contributor, "Discussion: The Future of the Church in America ," John Jay Institute, October 4, 2016 ​ Guest Blogger, "Another Sort of Feminism: 7 Risks of the Pill ," uCatholic, October 25, 2018 Articles featured on ChurchPOP , 2018-Present ​ Guest writer, "Community in the Renewal of Catholic Education ," Ethika Politika, January 28, 2019 ​ Featured Alumna, "Master's Degree from Christendom Helps Teachers Make a Difference ," Instaurare of Christendom College, Front Royal, VA March 12, 2019 ​ Guest writer, "5 Tips for Good Friday, etc .," Aleteia, April 18, 2019 ​ Guest writer, "Wonderful and Difficult Lessons Learned from Being a Child of Immigrants ," Verily, July 2, 2019 ​ ​ Interview, "Transforming How We Learn & Grow in the Faith ​," St. Josemaria Institute, April 1, 2020 ​ Guest writer, "Leisure in the Life of the Christian ," (including A Litany of Leisure and Leisure: A Biblical Examination of Conscience) The Catechetical Review, April-June 2020 ​ Guest writer, "A Personal Vocation,"The Catechetical Review, January-March 2021 (Click here ) ​ Guest writer, "Why we need the feminine genius ," Angelus, January 14, 2021 ​"Endow: The Remedy to Gender Confusion ." Catholic Exchange, September 21, 2022 ​ Is Love a Feeling or a Choice? Catholic Answers Magazine January 26, 2023 ​ The Secret Ingredient to Evangelizing Catholic Answers Magazine February 9, 2023 ​ For a list of all my articles for Catholic Answers Magazine Online, click here . ​ For a list of all my articles for The Catechetical Review, click here . ​ ​ Books ​ ​Author, The Daily Routine: The Vision for You Journal . (2023) ​ Guest Contributor, Road Signs for Catholic Teens , Chapter entitled, “Stop Sign Sabbath." (2019) ​ ​ Podcast ​ Host of Beyond Rome . (2024-present) Beyond Rome is a podcast that seeks to reconnect Catholics with their Hebraic and Christian roots in the Near East. Hosted by Simone Rizkallah, joined by James O’Reilly and the Philos Catholic team at the Philos Project, they explore a variety of topics related to religion and culture in the West and why the Near East matters for a healthy Church and world. Beyond Rome looks beyond the West to understand what makes the Catholic Church truly universal. ​ Host of The Endow Podcast .​ (2020-2023) Endow is a Catholic apostolate for women. We call women together to study the important documents of the Catholic Church. Through Endow groups, women encounter their identity as daughters of God, enabling them to grow in their faith and ultimately discover their mission in life. ​ Host of The Catholic Pulse: Godly Views on Worldly News — A six part series on The Catholic Channel. (Fall 2023) ​ ​ Interviews ​ The Lila Rose Show 8/15/19 Grateful Haven 10/19 Mamas in Spirit 12/11/19 How Did You Get Here? 3/6/20 Creedal Catholic (On Gossip)3/24/20 The Way of Beauty 3/27/20 The Catholic Exchange 4/15/20 FemCatholic 4/23/20 (Video Chat) Revolution of Tenderness 5/13/20 Creedal Catholic (On St. Catherine of Siena) 5/18/20 Mamas in the Spirit -Instagram Live Interview 7/29/2020 Creedal Catholic (On St. Edith Stein) 8/6/20 ​The Catholic Mama 8/13/20 LA Catholic Morning Show on 94.5 Archangel Radio 8/7/20 Fiat Ministry Network 9/17/20 To Grow Good 10/6 /20 Bread with the Sisters (Youtube) 12/2/20 Dismantle Podcast ( Thank God for Women) 3/18/21 EWTN In Depth 4/16/21 Mater Dei Radio - Morning Blend 5/24/21 Hearts + Minds 7/1/21 (The Great Female Saints) Mater Dei Radio - Morning Blend 7/22/21 Catholic Faith Network 9/22/21 Elevate Ordinary 2/24/22 The Genius Podcast 3/10/22 The Fides Podcast 3/11//22 Catholic Answers 3/28//22- Hour #2 Catholic Faith Network 3/29/22 Barbatus Catholic Podcast 5/10/22 Respect Life Radio 8 /8/22 Catholic Answers 8 /26/22 - Hour #1 Catholic Answers 9/23/22 - Hour #1 Sacred Heart Radio 9/26/22 Find Your Purpose Now 10/30/22 The Being Human Podcast 11/8/22 Catholic Answers Focus Live (The Church Oppresses Women DEBUNKED) 11/17/22 Catholic Answers Live 1/20/23 - Hour#1 Outside the Walls 2/2/23 Catholic Answers Live 2/16/23 - Hour #1 The Edify Podcast 3/10/23 Discerning Your Personal Vocation with the Daily Routine Journal 3/23/23 Catholic Answers Live (Suffering) 4/5/23 Catholic Answers Focus Live (Confirmation) 4/12/23 The Deep Map 5/1/23 Catholic Answers Live (Suffering Part 2) 5/1/23 Catholic Answers Live (Eucharist & Loneliness) 6/19/23 La Catholics Story 6/28/23 Physically Spiritual 9/12/23 Catholic Answers Live 9/25/23 Catholic Answers Live 12/19/23 Good Distinctions 12/27/23 EWTN Life on the Rock EWTN News In-Depth 1/12/24 ( Min. 2.50-4.00) Covenant Radio 1/3/24 ​ On Armenia: Catholic Answers Live (Min. 29-55) 7/19/23 EWTN News In Depth 8/4/23 The Counsel of Trent 8/14/23 Divine Intimacy Radio 8/21/23 EWTN The World Ove r 8/24/23 The Lila Rose Show 9/5/23 LOOPCast by Catholic Vote 10/17/23 According to Br idget 12/13/23 ​ ​ Webinars ​ Lent: A Path to a Deeper Peace ​ What is the Christian's Role in a Distracted Age? ​ The Gates of Hell Will Not Prevail: Prayer Vigil Against Armenian Christian Persecution ​ The Christmas Conversion & St. Therese ​ Philos Black "Inspire & Inclusion " 2024 International Women's Day ​ What is it like to be a Christian in Gaza and the West Bank?

Books & Resources Please enjoy the resources I've written below Litany of Leisure A prayer authored by Simone Rizkallah to help orient one's heart toward leisure and rest in the Lord. FREE DOWNLOAD Go to Litany of Healing for Families A prayer authored by Simone Rizkallah to help one invite the Lord's healing and freedom into their family. FREE DOWNLOAD Go to ​ The Daily Routine: The Vision for You Journal This journal is designed by Simone Rizkallah to accompany those who wish pursue their personal vocation with greater intentionality. VIEW DETAILS Go to Biblical Examen on Leisure A guided reflection authored by Simone Rizkallah to help one identify where they've embraced toil and strife instead of leisure. FREE DOWNLOAD Go to Litany of Fortitude for Teachers A prayer authored by Simone Rizkallah to help teachers press through hardship and keep their eyes fixed on the Lord. FREE DOWNLOAD Go to Road Signs for Catholic Teens Simone Rizkallah is honored to be a guest contributor to this book, which offers teens insight and guidance as they learn to navigate their life and faith. VIEW DETAILS Go to "Teach me, Oh Lord, to search for You. Show Yourself to me when I search for You. If You do not teach me first, I cannot seek You. If You do not reveal Yourself to me, I cannot find You. In longing, may I search for You, and in searching, long for You. In love, may I find You, and in finding You, love You." -ST. AMBROSE OF MILAN

Contact Me I'd love to hear from you! Interested in booking me to speak at your event or write for your publication? Send me a message below! TOPICS I SPECIALIZE IN: What It Means to Be a Christian Leisure & Acedia Suffering Personal Vocation Gossip On Human Nature/Virtues Healing The Feminine Genius Evangelization & Culture The Epidemic of Loneliness Church History Moral Theology The Eastern Churches/Christianity Jewish-Christian Relations Type of inquiry Select one Send Thanks for submitting! JOIN EMAIL LIST Want to receive updates about my upcoming speaking engagements and new publications? Sign up below! Join Your information will never be sold or distributed. Thank you for subscribing!

Podcast Find me as host at one of the podcasts below Introducing a new podcast... Beyond Rome ​ Beyond Rome is a podcast that seeks to reconnect Catholics with their Hebraic and Christian roots in the Near East. Hosted by Simone Rizkallah, joined by James O’Reilly and the Philos Catholic team at the Philos Project, they explore a variety of topics related to religion and culture in the West and why the Near East matters for a healthy Church and world. Beyond Rome looks beyond the West to understand what makes the Catholic Church truly universal. ​ Available on your preferred platform and on Youtube . Subscribe to the Beyond Rome Podcast The Endow Podcast The Endow Podcast is a forum for women to foster conversations about the intellectual life and intentional community for the cultivation of the feminine genius. Hosted by Simone Rizkallah from 2020-2023. Available on your preferred platform and on Youtube . Subscribe to the Endow Podcast

About Simone Rizkallah Before discovering her passion for the Faith and the call to evangelize, Simone worked in marketing, communications, media, radio and her first love, theatre. Her graduate degree is in Theological Studies with an emphasis in Systematic Theology from Christendom College. She has worked at the parish level, for both youth and adult formation at St. Ambrose parish in Annandale, Virginia and taught high school seniors moral theology and Church History and chaired the Theology Department at St. Mary’s Catholic High School in Phoenix, Arizona. She also served at Endow, an apostolate for women dedicated to cultivating a New Feminism according to the vision of Pope St. John Paul II. You can find her thoughts on the prophetic value of Church documents on The Endow Podcast from 2020-2023. Currently, Simone is Deputy Director of Education at the Philos Project, a frequent guest on Catholic Answers Live, and a faculty member of the Avila Institute. As a first generation American of Egyptian-Armenian descent, Simone has a particular interest in matters of religious freedom, culture and the Eastern roots of the Faith. She currently hosts the Beyond Rome podcast which seeks to reconnect Catholics to their Hebraic and Near Eastern Christian Roots. ​ You can find her talks and publications on culturalgypsy.com . To view my CV, please click here . If your diocese requires a letter of good standing, please click here .

Past Speaking Engagements Click the videos below to watch past presentations and interviews I've given FEATURED VIDEOS Archive Click the categories below to browse the video collection by topic. LEISURE ARMENIA WOMEN PERSONAL VOCATION | | | SUFFERING & LONELINESS ISRAEL & THE NEAR EAST | VIDEOS ON LEISURE The Virtue of Leisure (ENDOW Interview) On this episode of the Endow Podcast, Laura Zambrana, Director of Content, interviews Simone Rizkallah, Director of Program Growth, on the topic of leisure in the life of the Christian. Laura Zambrana, MDiv, is the Director of Content for Endow. As Director of Content, Laura brings our new studies to life through editing and overseeing the design and printing process. Laura also manages our website content. She has been an Endow host since 2010 and has led several Endow groups in Pasadena and Hollywood, CA. Laura graduated from Thomas Aquinas College and studied Theology at the University of Notre Dame. The Endow Podcast is a forum for women to foster conversations about the intellectual life and intentional community for the cultivation of the feminine genius. The Vice of Sloth (ENDOW Interview) On this episode of the Endow Podcast, Laura Zambrana, Director of Content, interviews Simone Rizkallah, Director of Program Growth, on the deadly vice contrary to leisure which is acedia (sloth). This conversation is a continuation of last week's interview. Laura Zambrana, MDiv, is the Director of Content for Endow. As Director of Content, Laura brings our new studies to life through editing and overseeing the design and printing process. Laura also manages our website content. She has been an Endow host since 2010 and has led several Endow groups in Pasadena and Hollywood, CA. Laura graduated from Thomas Aquinas College and studied Theology at the University of Notre Dame. The Endow Podcast is a forum for women to foster conversations about the intellectual life and intentional community for the cultivation of the feminine genius. The Virtue of Leisure (CALive Interview) In this live-streamed recording, Simone Rizkallah is interviewed on Catholic Answers Live about the virtue of leisure. Interview starts at 1:02:00. Leisure and Living Your Best Life (Elevate Ordinary Interview) What is LEISURE and why are westerners so bad at it? Josef Pieper's book "Leisure the Basis of Culture" gives us insight into how recreation and relaxation allows us to LOVE our LIVES. Special guest Simone Rizkallah of Endow and the Cultural Gypsy joins JonMarc and Teresa on the Elevate Ordinary Podcast to talk about how LEISURE can help you live your BEST LIFE! Episode 45 SHOW HOSTS: JonMarc & Teresa Grodi Show Notes: What is the Christian's Role in a Distracted Age? (Philos Project Interview) What is the role of the church, individual Christians, and the life of the spirit in an age of distraction? The Philos Project's Charles Malik Institute discussed with special guest Simone Rizkallah. _________ The Charles Malik Institute explores the big questions at the intersection of religion, culture, and politics through the legacy of Charles Malik. Learn more: Two Notions of Leisure The Institute for Human Ecology invites you to our 2024 Saint Scholastica event, “Two Notions of Leisure: Resting in the Lord vs. Restless Consumption.” In a world where our attention is a highly marketable commodity, falling into a cycle of restless consumption can feel impossible to avoid. As Christians, developing a toolbox of virtue is the most crucial path to enjoying true leisure. Join Dr. Paul Radich and Ms. Simone Rizkallah, experts in the concept of leisure as both a social and spiritual phenomenon, as they share their knowledge and tools for growing in this essential virtue. About the speakers: Dr. Paul Radich: Paul Radich is an Assistant Professor of Marketing at The Catholic University of America’s Busch School of Business. His areas of focus include virtue ethics, political economy, consumer behavior, education, and the role of meaning in fostering human flourishing. He received his doctorate from Catholic University, and two undergraduate degrees from the University of Notre Dame. Dr. Radich was also recently named to the Ethics Committee of the American Marketing Association. Ms. Simone Rizkallah: Simone Rizkallah is Special Advisor to the President of The Philos Project. As a first-generation American of Egyptian-Armenian descent, Ms. Rizkallah has a particular interest in matters of religious freedom, culture, and the Eastern roots of the Faith. Her graduate degree is in Theological Studies from Christendom College. Her undergraduate studies and professional background include marketing communications, media, radio, and theatre. Ms. Rizkallah is a frequent guest on Catholic Answers Live and a faculty member of the Avila Institute. Community, Sharing the Interior Life, & the Eucharist This episode of Physically Spiritual is a conversation with Simone Rizkallah. We discuss her journey of faith, maturing in community, sharing the interior life, and the Eucharist. Episode 116 Show Host: Andrew Reinhart LOAD MORE VIDEOS ON ARMENIA Armenia In this live-streamed recording, Simone Rizkallah is interviewed on Catholic Answers Live about Armenia. Interview takes place from 00:29:00-00:55:00. The Nagorno-Karabakh Blockade In this EWTN News In Depth interview, Simone Rizkallah, Special Advisor to the Philos Project, Armenia shares her insights on a blockade in a mountain region of Nagorno-Karabakh in Azerbaijan. ------------ Hosted by Montse Alvarado, EWTN News In Depth welcomes guests in a discussion of current events in the Church, politics, and culture, all through the lens of the Catholic faith. This show is about finding out who we are as people and as Catholics, and how we can confidently live our faith in the world. It is produced by EWTN News: https://www.ewtnnews.com The Forgotten Christian Genocide (That's Still Happening) In this episode of The Counsel of Trent podcast, Trent sits down with Armenian Christian Simone Rizkallah to discuss the past and current Genocide of Armenian Christians and what we can do to help stop this tragedy. The Gates of Hell Will Not Prevail Join Dan and Stephanie Burke on Divine Intimacy Radio as they talk with Simone Rizkallah and Dr. Joseph Hollcraft about the Armenian Christian Persecution and the importance of prayer, spiritual warfare, and intercession in combating evil and promoting change. Join the Fight to Help Our Armenian Brothers and Sisters: Armenian Christians Simone Rizkallah, special advisor on Armenia to the president of The Philos Project discusses the current state of the blockade by Azerbaijan in the Nagorno-Karabakh region. ------------- The World Over with Raymond Arroyo airs on EWTN Thursdays at 8pm ET. It re-airs on Fridays at 1am & 9:30am ET, and Mondays at 10pm ET. ------------- Raymond Arroyo is known for his penetrating interviews of leading news figures. His Conversations on The World Over have included Presidents Bush and Trump, Pope Benedict XVI, Mother Theresa, Mel Gibson, famed tenor Placido Domingo and comic legend, Jerry Lewis. The show is produced by EWTN News: https://www.ewtnnews.com Prayer Vigil Against Armenian Christian Persecution Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they pray with Simone Rizkallah, Christopher Carstens, Gia Chacón, and Most Reverend Mikaël Antoine Mouradian as they pray against the Armenian Christian Persecution. Armenia and Christian Persecution On this episode of The Lila Rose Podcast, Lila Rose sits down with Simone Rizkallah, Theologian and Speaker, to talk about the Christian persecution that is happening in the world, with a special focus on a genocide happening to Armenians as we speak. Learn more here: The Secret Christian Genocide: What is Going On In Armenia? On September 19th, 120,000 Armenian Christians were attacked by Azerbaijan after almost a year of starvation at the hands of a suffocating blockade. After fleeing Nagorno-Karabakh, their lives are in complete chaos. In this episode of LOOPcast by Catholic Vote, Tom Pogasic sits down with Armenian Christian Simone Rizkallah to hear more about the Christian persecution happening right under our noses. The Armenian Genocide: Then and Now This episode of the According to Bridget podcast will be more than you bargained for. A history, foreign policy, Eastern Catholicism and Armenia lesson all wrapped up into one! Tune in for this interview with Simone Rizkallah: Armenia Today, America Tomorrow On January 3, 2024 Simone Rizkallah and Dan Harre of The Philos Project attended the SEEK24 Conference in St. Louis, where 20,000 Catholic young adults gather every year. Simone and Dan joined a panel titled, "Armenia Today, America Tomorrow," where they discussed the persecution of the Armenian Church and Christians across the world. Approximately 500 people attended the panel and dozens of audience members were eager to ask questions following the event! Click the link below to listen to the panel discussion: LOAD MORE VIDEOS ON WOMEN What Feminism Gets Wrong While the world preaches empowerment for all women, the women it celebrates always seem to fit a certain mold. What does feminism get wrong? And what’s the best approach to understanding femininity? Find out from Simone Rizkallah in this new EDIFY video. Does the Church Oppress Women? Recently, Pope Francis reiterated to the editors of Jesuit journal America that there was no possibility of the ordination of women to the Catholic priesthood. The Holy Father’s clear theological explanation, however, provoked one New York polemicist to accuse the pope of “mansplaining.” Since the sexual revolution, especially, a not uncommon objection from voices within and without the Catholic Church holds that the 2000-year-old institution oppresses women. Is this concern a legitimate one or one rooted in misunderstandings in anthropology? After all, Pope St. John Paul II, apologized in his 1995 Letter to Women for occasions “when members of the church have reflected more the attitudes of the culture than the kind of culture that Christianity is supposed to generate in the world.” Using the Letter to Women as a point of departure, theologian Simone Rizkallah, Director of Program Growth at ENDOW (Educating on the Nature and Dignity of Women), will take up this vexed question and help us understand whether the Church is the greatest oppressor, or greatest liberator, of women in history. The Church Oppresses Women DEBUNKED Modern secular people have forgotten the role of the Catholic Church in lifting humanity out of ignorance, violence, poverty, and disease. Perhaps most forgotten, is the Catholic contribution to an embrace of the dignity of women. Simone Rizkallah, director of program growth at Endow (Educating on the Nature and Dignity of Women), explains. The Feminine Genius Simone Rizkallah speaks on the feminine genius at Love & Responsibility Los Angeles. Diversity, Gender, and the Genius of Women Welcome to Episode 99 of the Being Human Podcast: Diversity, Gender, and the Genius of Women, w/ Simone Rizkallah. This week, Dr. Greg Bottaro welcomes Simone Rizkallah to the show for a powerful conversation focused around femininity, the genius of women, complementarity between the sexes, and cultural differences! The full episode can be watched here: The Dignity of Women In this live-streamed recording, Simone Rizkallah is interviewed on Catholic Answers Live about the dignity of women. Interview starts at 1:01:45. The Feminine Genius In this live-streamed recording, Simone Rizkallah is interviewed on Catholic Answers Live about the feminine genius. International Women's Day 2024 Together Thursdays is a recurring virtual gathering organized by the Philos Black network, aiming to foster community and meaningful dialogue. This month’s session coincides with International Women's Day 2024, focusing on the theme of 'Inspire Inclusion'. The event will feature conversations on fostering a more inclusive world for women across various sectors. LOAD MORE VIDEOS ON PERSONAL VOCATION How to Unite the Church In 1 Corinthians 10:17, St. Paul says that “because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.” Instead of the Church having the Eucharist to celebrate our oneness, Paul suggests that the Eucharist creates our oneness. In this talk, Simone will explore this relationship between the Eucharist and the Mystical Body of Christ, with an emphasis on the reality that partaking in the Eucharist is what makes ecclesial union possible. Simone Rizkallah talks about how the Eucharist can unite the Church in her talk given at the 2022 Catholic Answers Conference, "The Eucharist - I Am with You Always." To attend this year's conference in person and meet your favorite apologists, visit: https://catholicanswersconference.com Discerning Your Personal Vocation with the Daily Routine Journal David Clayton shares how a chance encounter 35 years ago led him to develop a process – The Vision for You – for discerning one's calling in life through spiritual exercises and daily habits. Simone Rizkallah was mentored through this process, which helped her reevaluate her life during COVID-19 and accompany others in understanding current events. Simone has partnered with the Way of Beauty to produce the Daily Routine Journal, providing a place to continue these exercises, to remember how God is working in your life, and to narrow in on your calling each day. Buy The Daily Routine Journal on Amazon today to begin your journey of personal vocation and purpose: Realize the Gifts You've Been Given A talk from Simone Rizkallah at the 2023 GIVEN Gathering in Southern California. Receive the Gift That You Are A talk from Simone Rizkallah at the 2022 GIVEN Gathering in Southern California. The Four Cardinal Virtues On this episode of the Endow Podcast, Annette Bergeon, Executive Director, interviews Simone Rizkallah, Director of Program Growth, on the four cardinal virtues, the four human powers they perfect, and how to become a virtuous person! Annette is a cradle Catholic who was born and raised in Ohio. She earned engineering degrees from Purdue University and the University of Michigan, and an MBA in Finance and Operations Management from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. She is a wife and mother of three living in Colorado. She has been involved with Endow Groups for almost a decade and is passionate about the mission to educate women about their true nature and dignity. The Endow Podcast is a forum for women to foster conversations about the intellectual life and intentional community for the cultivation of the feminine genius. Gossip & Prophecy On this episode of the Endow Podcast, Annette Bergeon interviews Simone Rizkallah, Director of Program Growth, and Jonna Schuster from Catholic Revival Ministries on the vice of Gossip and the gift of Prophecy. Annette Bergeon is the CEO of Endow. She is a cradle Catholic who was born and raised in Ohio. She earned engineering degrees from Purdue University and the University of Michigan, and an MBA in Finance and Operations Management from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. She is a wife and mother of three living in Colorado. She has been involved with Endow Groups for almost a decade and is passionate about the mission to educate women about their true nature and dignity. Jonna Schuster is Director and Co-Founder of Catholic Revival Ministries, where she equips Catholics to bring supernatural impact to the world by partnering with the Holy Spirit in power and love. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois and Christendom Graduate School, with degrees in Graphic Design and Moral Theology, respectively. She spent 10 years as a full-time Director of Youth Ministry in the diocese of Arlington, VA, before which she served for two years as the first Campus Minister at Western Illinois University. The Endow Podcast is a forum for women to foster conversations about the intellectual life and intentional community for the cultivation of the feminine genius. What It Means to Be a Christian In this live-streamed recording, Simone Rizkallah is interviewed on Catholic Answers Live about what it means to be a Christian. Exploring Catholic & American Identity 🌐 Join us in this thought-provoking conversation as Will Wright and Simone Rizkallah share their perspectives on the often overlooked aspects of their identities as Catholics, Americans, and immigrants. Delving into the rich history of the Armenian Catholic Church and the various rites within the Catholic Church, they explore the impact of persecution and poverty on the Eastern Church. 🔍 Throughout the discussion, Will and Simone tackle important topics such as the busyness of the American Church, the necessity of leisure and contemplation, and the dangers of tribalism and activism. They stress the importance of Scripture and prayer while cautioning against conforming the Church to American values, advocating instead for Catholics to align themselves with the teachings of the Church. 🔑 Key Takeaways: - Respect and honor the feminine and masculine genius in society. - Align societal structures with Gospel principles for human flourishing. - Evaluate personal beliefs in light of Church teachings. - Prioritize Catholic identity over national identity. - Challenge American exceptionalism with a critical examination. - Foster authentic relationships and community for a more humane existence. LOAD MORE VIDEOS ON SUFFERING & LONELINESS Suffering with Jesus, Part I In this live-streamed recording, Simone Rizkallah is interviewed on Catholic Answers Live about suffering with Jesus. This interview is part 1 of 2 on this topic. Suffering with Jesus, Part II In this live-streamed recording, Simone Rizkallah is interviewed on Catholic Answers Live about suffering with Jesus. This interview is part 2 of 2 on this topic. Encountering Holy Saturday Click below to watch this presentation by Simone Rizkallah at the Christ Medicus Foundation webinar on spiritual healing. A New Era of Health Care: Reuniting Healing and Whole Health. June 15, 2022. Loneliness & the Eucharist In this live-streamed recording, Simone Rizkallah is interviewed on Catholic Answers Live about loneliness and the Eucharist. The Epidemic of Loneliness & The Eucharist Click below to watch this presentation by Simone Rizkallah at the 2024 SEEK Conference in St. Louis, MO. LOAD MORE VIDEOS ON ISRAEL & THE NEAR EAST 10 Misconceptions About Jews, Israel, and Middle Eastern Christians Simone Rizkallah with the Philos Project's Catholic initiative debunks 10 misconceptions people have about the Jewish people, modern Israel, and Christians in the Middle East. ___________ The Philos Project is a community of Christian leaders who advocate for pluralism in the Near East. Visit our website to learn about Israel and the region from a Christian perspective: The (Spiritual) Crisis of the West Is there a spiritual crisis in the West? Soaring levels of anxiety, loneliness, and the crisis of identity are only a few trends of Western Civilization. To talk about these alarming trends, Robert from The Philos Project sits down with Simone Rizkallah in this episode of The Deep Map Podcast. What Is It Like to be a Christian in Gaza and the West Bank? In Gaza and the West Bank, Christians are "dhimmi," an Arabic term meaning second-class. At Philos, we work to close the culture gap between East and West and help our network understand the Near East and its people. Watch to learn the implications of being Christian in Gaza and the West Bank, drawn from personal encounters with real Christians experiencing these hardships firsthand. Our panelists are Philos Senior Research Fellow Andrew Doran, Syrian Christian and Philos Senior Research Fellow @hadeeloueis7079, and Deputy Director of Education at Philos Simone Rizkallah. Nostra Aetate & The Future of Jewish-Catholic Relations This conference addresses the history of Catholic-Jewish relations, the history of antisemitism, Nostra Aetate and its significance, and the shared experiences of Orthodox Jewish and committed Catholic communities amid the challenges of the secular, progressive age. The third Panel Discussion includes speakers Rabbi Mark Gottlieb, Simone Rizkallah, and John Henry Crosby as the moderator. The Panel's discussion is titled: "Orthodox Communities Shoulder to Shoulder: Sustaining Faith, Family, and Community in a Hostile Age." To watch the recorded livestream of this panel, click the link below and select Panel Discussion 3, broadcasted 10/25/23 at 3:45pm. -- Nostra Aetate and the Future of Catholic-Jewish Relations at a Time of Rising Antisemitism is sponsored by Franciscan University of Steubenville and The Philos Project. LOAD MORE To view the complete collection of all my past speaking engagements, please visit my CV page .

Staging Area