I am Loretta Ortego and I live in Chataignier, Louisiana. I am married to Deacon Charles Ortego and we have 4 adult children, 11 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. We are very blessed with family.
I am retired from teaching high school theology in Catholic school. I love the Church and have always tried to serve her in any way I can, but mostly in education. I taught in Catholic school for 34 years and catechism even longer than that. The Lord has blessed me with many religious experiences but the most profound thing I have ever gone through was the 19th Annotation. I first heard of the spiritual director internship many years ago but the Lord only opened the door to enter in 2021 through the Archdiocese of New Orleans Program held at Grand Coteau. I just received certification as a spiritual director in August 2023. It has been such a privilege to sit and watch God’s movement in directees. I am so humbled to have this experience and thank God everyday for the many holy people I have met seeking to go deeper in their spiritual lives. All of this brings me closer to the Lord. It is with a grateful heart I thank the Lord.