Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Isabella Vella's journey to consecrated virginity culminated on January 21, 2025, at Most Precious Blood parish in Oviedo. Her spiritual path began over a decade ago and led her to become the third consecrated virgin in the Diocese of Orlando.

Reflecting on her high school years, Vella said, “In high school, I was never one of these kids that ran with the popular crowd,” describing herself as “kind of unseen.” Raised by Italian parents in a strict household, she had limited social experiences and pursued education close to home.

Her career as a dental assistant introduced her to Pam Clarke, who saw potential for religious life in Vella. Clarke remarked, “I saw (her vocation) before she saw it... She had the discipline, the love, the passion and compassion.”

Vella's quest for purpose led her from New York to Miami and eventually central Florida. A transformative experience at St. John Neumann Parish reignited her faith. “It was earth-shattering,” she recalled about her initial visit there.

In 2016, during Eucharistic Adoration, Vella experienced a revelation about her calling: “As quick as a flash of lightning I got all this information.” Despite initial reluctance, she embraced signs leading her toward consecrated virginity.

Grace Kupiszewski played a pivotal role in encouraging Vella’s discernment process. Kupiszewski assured her that their meeting was divinely orchestrated: “This is real,” Sister Grace told Vella.

Consecrated virgins live in communion with the Church through spiritual bonds with their bishop and focus on prayer for diocesan needs. Jennifer Settle became Vella’s mentor after recognizing her calling at a Theology of the Body conference.

Settle expressed joy witnessing Vella’s dedication: “It has been a joy to journey with Isabella and to witness her calling to a life dedicated to Jesus as virgin, bride, and spiritual mother.”

Reflecting on her journey, Vella shared insights into the impact of consecrated virginity: “I may not bear children from my womb as would a wife, but together with Christ we bear spiritual children.”