As the 2025-2026 school year approaches its closing, the outgoing Riordan Life Team class of 2026 passes their torches to the incoming team of 2027.
This is a full circle moment for the team, as a year ago, they were in the same position taking that next step to further their faith, and spread it to the Riordan community.
Each applicant was carefully selected based on their leadership qualities, mission to grow their faith, and ability to work together as a team.
These new members will now take on the responsibility of strengthening campus ministry efforts, bringing students and faculty together to celebrate and evolve their faith, and outline just what it means to be a Lifer.
Keira Cabuntala ’27 said, “When I found out that I made the LIFE team, I was ecstatic. I couldn’t wait to grow more in faith with a new community of people, as well as leading MLCs for our school!”
Looking back at past Life Teams, the impact they have had on not just the Riordan community, but themselves as a team who grew a connection is merely an aspect of this leadership.
LIFE refers to “Living in Faith Experience,” and for decades, each team has successfully met this standard and even exceeded it, with no doubt that the next team will do so as well.
A consistent part of Life Team is the monthly Marianist Life Community events that combine faith, food, and fun. A huge part of these MLC’s are the activities included that are based on the theme.
“My favorite MLC was the one in April. The Easter related activities and it being our last one made it very memorable and fun,” Life Team member Lucas Libran ’26 said.
Beyond planning events, Life Team members also serve as role models on campus. Whether they are participating in Mass leading retreats, or simply creating a positive atmosphere around school, they play a critical role in shaping the CME’s of Riordan.
Life Team focuses on creating spaces where students can feel seen, heard, and supported by encouraging them to reflect on their experiences, values, and journeys.
These moments allow students and even faculty to take a step back from academics, athletics, or other extracurricular activities, and instead focus on personal growth and connection.
The bonds that form through retreats, meetings, and the teamwork for events continue long after closing out as a Lifer.
Past members have described the experience as one that has helped them to grow confident in themselves and their faith, and grow bonds with people they haven’t spoken to throughout the three years they’ve attended Riordan.
Life Team moderator Melanie Aguas stated, “Being a co-moderator has been one of the biggest blessings of my life. I love seeing all the creative ways the LIFE team brings the mission to life through personal testimonies, interactive activities, and scripture reflection.”
As the class of 2026 prepares to graduate, they leave behind a legacy of faith, service, and community. Concurrently, the class of 2027 steps into a new chapter of opportunity and responsibility.
It is their turn to bring new ideas, dedication, and teamwork. It is their turn to carry on the flame of spreading faith through the Riordan community to set the stage for the class of 2028, and continue the fire from the Life Team class of 2026.
