In 2025, Archmere welcomed a new Theology teacher, Ms. Francesca Casarella. Casarella brings fresh energy and enthusiasm to the Archmere classroom, with a passion for theology. She teaches Christian Ethics, Intro to Philosophy, and Catholic Creed and Culture.
Casarella got her BA and MA in theology from the University of Notre Dame. Caserella previously taught at Gloucester Catholic High School in NJ for the past two years.
Casarella has traveled and lived in many different countries. When asked about how she thinks living in those countries has shaped her into becoming a better religion teacher, she states that she has had the opportunity to see “the different ways religion is implicitly a part of how common spaces are structured.” She’s stayed in many countries, primarily Muslim, Jewish, or Buddhist, which have exposed her to new cultures and religions. Casarella thrives in Archmere’s theology settings because of her experience in learning how different religions shape unique cultures.
Caserella’s journey to faith began in high school, at the same age as the current Auks. She states that it started in high school when he heard of an Italian Priest named Father Luigi Guissani. Cassarella says,“The priest called everyone back to question, ‘What is it we’re doing with Catholicism?’” Casarella had the opportunity to meet people who knew Father Luigi Guissani and the movement that developed around him, including individuals with diverse backgrounds.
The new Archmere teacher’s favorite theological questions are the ones that never end, but only get deeper and deeper as you explore them. She states that the most interesting question to her is, “how does God’s identity declare who I am; who each of us is as human beings?” or even, “what’s the whole meaning of life essentially?” “She promotes a broad range of perspectives to further discussions within the classroom, never coming to only one conclusion,” said Susanna Connolly ‘27.
What’s Ms. Casarella’s hot takes about Archmere food? Surprisingly, she has yet to try any, but has shown interest in the various deserts Archmere has to offer. She’s open to suggestions, so make sure to let her know your favorites!
