In advance of the 2022 Festival of Faiths, the nonprofit Hosparus Health set out to uplift the sacred stories of four Louisvillians whose work has a positive impact on others and the community at large.

The result is an insightful snapshot of conversations with:

  • Frank Woggon, Director of Chaplaincy Services at University of Louisville Health
  • Gaylia Rooks, Rabbi Emerita of The Temple in Louisville and CIR Board Member
  • Tori Murden McClure, President of Spalding University
  • Nachia Tellis, Hosparus Health Inpatient Care Center

The discussion included prompts such as “When do you feel most alive?” “What has most shaped your identity?” “What have you learned in your life that you’d like to pass on?” and “What gives meaning to your life?” Below is an overview of their answers to the latter question. Check out the full video here.

What gives meaning to your life?

“Relationships that have shaped me, that challenge me… My work gives meaning, too. Makes me grow, change and connects me to people.” —Frank Woggon

“My family is a big part of what gives meaning to my life. I have incredible friends, and that’s a real blessing. I do not take that for granted.” —Gaylia Rooks

“My job… we have an amazing mission in the tradition of the sisters of charity of nazareth. I love the mission of meeting the needs of the times, because it’s a finish line we can never cross.” —Tori Murden McClure

“Service to others gives meaning to my life. Being able to help someone who is either less fortunate or even just having a bad day really is what gives me a purpose to live.” —Nachia Tellis