Father Antony Vazhappilly – Pastor

Father Antony Vazhappilly is a priest, poet, writer, and author of the new book, “From A to C.” He has written several other books including “Wasting Time with Jesus,” “A Marian Handbook,” “Songs for a Spiritual Journey,” “Stations of the Cross,” and “Mary of Nazareth” which he co-authored with Rev. Dr. Biju Michael. He is the current Pastor of St. James the Apostle Catholic Church in Fremont, California.

Sheila Remolar-Reduta – Faith Formation Director

  • I love chocolate, Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds and karaoke
  • My favorite movie is “Up”
  • I directed two Youth Plays at St. James: “The Gift” in 2013 and “The Stewards” in 2016

Kate Dolorito – CCD Logistics Coordinator

  • I love ice cream – cookies and cream flavor
  • Kite is my favorite toy
  • I visited Panama Canal

Jeanne Di Paola – Level 1 Teacher/Mentor

  • Was in the very first, First Communion Class at St. James
  • Coached a world champion
  • Oldest of 8 children in her family

Ury Gonzalez – First Communion Teacher/Mentor

  • I was born in Nicaragua
  • I love playing basketball
  • My wife and I are both kindergarten teachers

Ellen Zaragoza – Level 3 Teacher/Mentor

  • I love treasure hunting at thrift stores, garage sales and flea markets
  • Once upon a time, I dreamt of being a window display artist, an event planner and working for Disney – but God had bigger plans.
  • The pandemic introduced me to the beauty of collecting and propagating succulents.

Hiyas Tungul – Level 4-5 Teacher/Mentor

  • Ex-varsity table tennis player in high school
  • Part of the Korean Army (not what you may think). It’s just BTS Army fandom.
  • Enjoys music, musicals and watching TV game shows

Nina Galang-Puebla – Level 6 Teacher/Mentor

From youth choir to my son’s baptism, St. James the Apostle Catholic Church has been a lifelong part of my journey. As a Health Sciences graduate and Health Educator, I’m passionate about inspiring healthy lifestyles. Being the only girl with three younger brothers taught me resilience, patience and strength!

Ian Ytem – Pre-Confirmation Teacher/Mentor

  • Youngest District Deputy for the Knights of Columbus in California
  • Broke my hip two years ago
  • Still attempting to learn bass after over a decade

Van Cabrieto – Confirmation Teacher/Mentor

  • Can make sushi – rolls and nigiri
  • Owns over 40,000 comic books
  • Holds a Master’s in Education and Curriculum