About Julia

Originally from outside of Cleveland, Ohio, but currently living in Richmond, Virginia, I was born and raised Catholic. My faith has always been a significant part of my life. However, it has grown and evolved throughout my life experiences and my exposure to diverse communities and spiritualities. I received both a BA in Media Studies and an MA in Theology from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. I began my career in youth ministry shortly after, creating programs for middle school and high school students at a parish in Leesburg, VA.

After four years in youth ministry, I discerned a call to religious life. I entered postulancy with The Daughters of Saint Paul in 2007 but left the order in 2008. Even though religious life was not the vocation I was called to, I credit that time as formative and a major stepping stone in my journey as a writer, educator, and spiritual director.

I returned to Washington, D.C. in 2008 and worked for a non-profit for two years, helping long-term volunteers transition after their service. I served as a long-term volunteer with NET Ministries in 2003-2004 and spent two summers serving the community of San Lucas Toliman in Guatemala. My commitment to community service and social justice are passions of mine and a vital part of my faith journey.

In 2010, I started my teaching career at Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria, VA, where I taught Scripture and Sacraments and eventually became the Theology Department Chair. After many years in the DC area, I relocated to Richmond, VA, continuing my work as a Theology teacher and also as a Media Studies instructor at St. Bridget Middle School. I still teach there today and serve as a liturgy coordinator and faith formation facilitator for faculty and staff. I have worked with adults discerning entrance into the Catholic Church through RCIA (now OCIA) at The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Richmond, VA. 

I also started contributing to blogs such as The Holy Ruckus and Live Today Well Collective, and in 2020, I launched my own podcast, Seven Mile Chats. Additionally, I have served as a facilitator, virtual presenter, and published author for Liturgy Training Publications in Chicago, IL.

While I have spent the majority of my career serving the Catholic Church, I recognize the divine presence in various faiths and spiritualities. In 2023, I began my certification in spiritual direction through The Ruah School for Spiritual Guidance at Richmond Hill in Richmond, VA, which promotes racial reconciliation and ecumenical work. I received my certification in Spiritual Direction from Richmond Hill in 2025 and look forward to walking alongside individuals seeking spiritual guidance from all walks of life through my spiritual direction practice, Seven Mile Journey.