Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Leidy Rivas, director of the Culture of Life Office at Catholic Charities of Central Florida, attended the Finishing Life Faithfully seminar at St. Vincent de Paul in Wildwood on November 24, 2025. The event was organized through a collaboration between Michael Lepore, parish Culture of Life ministry chair, and Paul Malley, president of Five Wishes with the Aging with Dignity organization.

During the seminar, Lepore received the 2025 Culture of Life Award. Rivas said the event highlighted successful teamwork among local organizations. She noted that Lepore was inspired by presentations from the 2024 Culture of Life Conference in Orlando and decided to start a Culture of Life ministry at his parish after discussing it with Father Kenny Aquino. Lepore then contacted Rivas for guidance and support.

The Diocese of Orlando was established in 1968 and currently includes 79 parishes, 11 missions, two basilicas, and 43 Catholic schools across several counties in central Florida. The diocese is led by Bishop James Noonan.

"Rivas said the event was the fruit of a wonderful collaboration between Michael Lepore, parish Culture of Life ministry chair, and Paul Malley, president of Five Wishes with the Aging with Dignity organization. It was also an opportunity to present Lepore with the 2025 Culture of Life Award."

"Inspired by the talks presented during the 2024 Culture of Life Conference in Orlando, Lepore approached pastor Father Kenny Aquino with the idea of launching a Culture of Life ministry. He then reached out to Rivas for guidance and support."

Staff Report, December 04, 2025