Maria Cabello

Maria Cabello, Executive Director – Claret Center, Inc.

After serving for 28 years as a Business Manager in an Archdiocese of Chicago parish, I felt called to a new chapter of ministry. I returned to Loyola University Chicago to earn a Master's degree in Pastoral Studies, seeking to deepen my understanding of spiritual formation, accompaniment, and compassionate leadership.

During that time, I worked part-time as the bookkeeper for Claret Center while also serving as Co-Coordinator of Associate Relationship for the Congregation of Notre Dame's Blessed Sacrament Province and providing financial support to several faith-based nonprofit organizations. My own formation at Claret Center also deepened through participation in the Spiritual Direction Internship Program, where I later had the privilege of serving as a facilitator.

In June 2022, I accepted the role of Executive Director of Claret Center during a significant period of transition. Along with new leadership came the challenge of relocating the Center because of urgent construction at our previous location. We found a new home in the former convent next to St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood. While the move required tremendous effort from many dedicated people, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter for our community.

Today, Claret Center is a place of welcome, healing, and hope. Our providers, staff, interns, and clients have helped transform this building into a space where people can experience compassionate care, deepen their spiritual lives, and find support for their emotional and psychological well-being.

It is a privilege to serve this remarkable community and to continue the Claretian mission of accompanying people with compassion, respect, and hope.

Welcome to Claret Center. We are honored to accompany you on your journey.