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November 26, 2019ARDMORE – Federica Aversa is living with the family of Deacon Juan Jimenez in Ardmore while she attends Lone Grove High School. She finds family life and Church life very similar in Oklahoma to her life in Rome. She only misses one thing – traditional Italian homecooked meals.
On Nov. 11, Aversa spoke about her experiences in the United States to the Men of Saint Mary of Ardmore group at their monthly dinner.
“We are really excited to have Federica this month as our speaker. Our group consists of about 35 to 40 men and when we have a speaker the caliber of Federica, many will turn out for the program,” said David Mannas, communications director for the group.
Some of the things Aversa finds familiar in Ardmore include Mass, the priests, friendly people and the strong faith of her host family. She visits with her family in Rome through social media on a daily basis.
Deacon Jimenez said, “Federica is a wonderful addition to our family. I am anxious to meet her family when they come for her graduation at the end of the year. She is a fine Catholic example.”
Some of the differences Aversa noticed included receiving the blood of Christ during Holy Communion, something she hasn’t experienced in Italy. She also has far fewer subjects to study in Oklahoma compared to the 36 subjects she was studying in her hometown. She is fluent in Italian, Spanish, French and English.
She said the biggest surprise was the number of Italian and pizza restaurants!
Charles Albert is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
