KAREN MAURO

Living Generously, Trusting in God's Plan

From an early age, Karen knew God was present in her life. When Karen was only two years old, her mother passed away. Her father had no money, so she and her newborn sister moved in with their grandmother.

"I remember the generosity and love of those who cared for us - family, friends and others from our community," Karen recalls. "They instilled a deep sense of trust that God is always there for me."

Karen's trust in God later led her to become Catholic at the age of 21 and go on to devote much of her life to studying, teaching and forming people in the Catholic faith. Early in their married life, Karen and her husband Tom settled in Laguna Beach. They joined St. Catherine Parish and gave generously of their time and resources.

"My family always taught me 'to whom much is given, much is expected,'" Karen explains. "I took that to heart. Tom and I always wanted to do what we could to help."

Since the Diocese of Orange was established in 1976, Karen and Tom have offered their support through the Pastoral Services Appeal.

More recently, the couple has made gifts to their favorite Catholic causes through the Orange Catholic Foundation.

"Tom and I felt that it is so important to get beyond the boundaries of individual parishes - to meet the tremendous needs of people in our community," Karen says.

One of the causes closest to Karen's heart is Catholic education. "Catholic schools have such a wonderful impact on society," she explains. "Many children want a Catholic education but can't afford it. We want to provide tuition assistance for families in need."

In addition to Catholic education, Karen passionately supports the Christ Cathedral project. "God has offered us a remarkable opportunity to reach out to everyone through the cathedral," she says. "It will be the heart of the Catholic Church in Orange."

Tom Mauro, a devoted husband, father and beloved family physician, passed away in 2018. Karen enjoys traveling and spending time with her six children, eight grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren, who carry on the family legacy of stewardship and generosity.

"Tom and I felt that it is so important to get beyond the boundaries of individual parishes - to meet the tremendous needs of people in our community."