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Kareen Lares-Lubanga—who also answers to “Mom” more often than anything these days—is someone whose story beautifully bridges home, family, faith, and a whole lot of love.

Born and raised in the Philippines, Kareen moved to Baton Rouge in 2015 at the age of 21, bringing with her both a strong sense of purpose and a deep-rooted faith. Not long after arriving, she met her future husband, Philippe, at a small employee lunch at their workplace. They didn’t talk much that day—but a social media connection the next day changed everything. Within a year, they were married, and this August they’ll celebrate 10 years together.

Today, Kareen and Philippe are raising a lively and growing family in the Shenandoah area. Their sons, Ethan (9) and Enzo (2), keep life full and active—and there’s even more joy on the way, with another baby boy expected this June. Late evenings, after the kids are asleep, often find Kareen and Philippe unwinding with pizza or wings, watching anime, or even dancing—something they’ve loved since their dating days.

Professionally, Kareen’s path reflects both determination and care for others. She earned her degree as a Radiologic Technologist in the Philippines, then continued her journey in the U.S. by pursuing Practical Nursing. Today, she serves as a medication nurse at Sunrise Senior Living, where her compassion and steady presence make a difference in the lives of those for whom she cares. Husband Philippe is a manager for Mary Lee Donuts on Jones Creek Rd.

Faith has always been central to Kareen’s life. She grew up in the Episcopal/Anglican tradition and was baptized and confirmed at St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in the Philippines, where she was deeply involved in youth and children’s ministry—even helping lead it as she grew older. When she moved to the United States, she hoped to find a church that felt familiar. She found that at St. Margaret’s, where she and her family began attending in December 2024.

What stands out most to Kareen about St. Margaret’s is the warmth of the community. She describes it as welcoming, inclusive, and easy to connect with—a place that feels like home, even far from where she began. For Kareen, her time here is not a new beginning as much as it is a continuation of a strong spiritual foundation, supporting who she is becoming in this season of life.

Ask Kareen what she hopes people remember about her, and her answer is simple: a loving and devoted wife and mother, a dependable friend, and a caring daughter. Spend even a little time with her, and you’ll see that she’s already living that out every day.