PHILADELPHIA, PA — Andrea Mueller, a seasoned young adult ministry professional, has been appointed Associate Director of the Office for Ministry with Young Adults (OMYA) at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, effective March 18, 2024.
Mueller’s appointment comes at a critical juncture in the Church’s commitment to engaging and accompanying young adults, ages 18-39, in their faith journey. The OMYA, part of the Office for Faith Formation for Youth and Young Adults (OFFYYA), was set up by Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez in July 2020 with the express aim of bolstering the role of young adults as Missionary Disciples for Jesus Christ in the world.
Mueller will partner closely with Reverend Timothy Tarnacki, O.S.P.P.E., Director of OMYA, to bolster programs and initiatives aimed at this demographic. Tarnacki hailed Mueller’s arrival, acknowledging her experience in young adult ministry and proven track record in organizing and coordinating service opportunities. “Our entire staff at the OFFYYA is pleased to welcome Andrea as part of the team. We eagerly anticipate the fresh perspectives and strategies she’ll bring to the young adult community,” said Tarnacki.
Mueller’s journey to this role is rooted deep in the Church and academia. A former Director of Fellowship and Service for the Philadelphia Chapter of Young Catholic Professionals, she has also garnered impressive experience in the realm of service coordination. The Saint Joseph’s University (SJU) alumna coordinated the Magis Weekly Service Program during her time there, earning accolades for her astute organizing skills. Passionate about serving the Church and the broader Philadelphia community, Mueller’s appointment promises to bring a fresh wave of energy and innovation to the Office.
A Pennsylvania native, Mueller holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology, and a Master of Science degree in Experimental Psychology from SJU. She also minored in Spanish and English. Her time at SJU saw her in various leadership and academic roles, each of which imbued her with a unique blend of skills and insight into youth and young adult ministry. After graduating, Mueller served as a management consultant at PwC, gaining invaluable experience in people analytics that she’ll undoubtedly tap into in her new role with the OMYA.
On accepting her new role, Mueller said, “I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to serve our Church and cultivate ministries that foster a culture of encounter with Christ for young adults in all walks of life.”
With an active lifestyle extending beyond work, Mueller is an enthusiastic embracer of all that Philadelphia has to offer. Her hobbies include exploring the city, absorbing art, attending Mass, running, and connecting with new people. With her appointment, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia aims to reaffirm its commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive faith community for young adults in the city.
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