Sebastian, Feli

For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe, plans to give you a future full of hope – Jeremiah 29:11

From the Philippines to the United States and India, and ultimately to Bloomington–Normal, a single scriptural verse has guided Feli Sebastian in her spiritual journey and inspired her generous, visionary contributions to the local community.

In 1981, the United States called when Feli visited her sister, Tessie, in Ohio, who was longing for family connection. Feli began teaching at a Montessori school in Toledo, Ohio and eventually joined the Franciscan Sisters’ convent in Sylvania, Ohio, seeking to explore her Catholic faith and discern whether religious life was her calling. During this time, her spirituality deepened through the practice of “centering prayer.”

By 1984, Feli decided to leave the convent, completing a second bachelor of arts degree in religious studies at Lourdes College, while also enrolling at the University of Toledo to earn a doctorate in guidance and counseling, ensuring that her Philippine credentials were recognized in the U.S.

As Feli completed her dissertation in 1989, she faced two job offers—one in Boston, Massachusetts and one in Bloomington, Illinois. Following a faculty recommendation, she joined the staff at BroMenn Hospital (now Carle BroMenn) in their counseling services.

From 1997 until 2011, Feli operated  her own private counseling practice. Later, a surprising new chapter brought romance and renewed purpose: through Match.com, she met James Moeller, whom she married in 2011 at Holy Trinity. Around the same time, her vision for a recovery-transition house for women became a reality with Labyrinth House, offering formerly incarcerated women support and community.

Building on this work, Feli co-developed with Mary Campbell, Dreams Are Possible, a program helping women gain skills and confidence for higher-paying employment. In 2020, she published her first book, “Broken and Beloved: A Memoir of Grit, Perseverance, and an Unstoppable Faith”.

Feli has been involved with many boards and additional community projects that help to make McLean County a better place to live. Throughout her journey she has woven together faith, service, and community.

A complete biography will be posted after the History Makers Gala.