Celeste Behe

Celeste Behe is a proud member of the Catholic Speakers Organization.

Celeste Behe speaks from her heart but talks with her hands.

She is a Bronx-born Italian who tells tales drawn from her own experience, which ranges from a city upbringing to a turnabout life in small-town Pennsylvania. Ridden barefoot between NYC subway cars at 1:00am? Been there. Created the “worst May altar ever”? Done that. Had dinner with Jeff Bezos? Well, yes, actually! Celeste’s stories are relatable and always entertaining, even while conveying the timeless truths of our Catholic faith.

But the stories of our lives don’t always follow the expected storylines. Celeste wasn’t prepared for the twist her own life story would take when her son announced that he was an atheist. Her experience prompted Celeste to found the St. Monica Ministry, which helps faithful Catholics to find solidarity, solace, and the strength to walk lovingly with their prodigals.

Celeste draws on her own experience to give presentations that are engaging, personal, and practical.

Choose from any of the following presentations, then click the Catholic Speakers logo on the left to arrange to have Celeste speak at your event.

Here Am I; Send Me!”

Celeste was convinced that she wasn’t cut out to lead a ministry. Over and over, she imagined scenarios in which she botched the job and brought the St. Monica Ministry to ruin. But that was before Celeste learned the truth about our individual giftedness. If you are burdened with feelings of uncertainty, unworthiness, or out-and-out ineptitude, this inspiring presentation is for you. Get ready to respond to Our Lord’s call with Isaiah’s bold words: “Here am I; send me!”

Wayfaring with St. Monica

When her wayward son Augustine set sail for Rome, St. Monica hiked up her tunic
and boarded a boat in pursuit. She became a wayfarer, enduring all manner of travel-related hardships in order to stay close to her son. In this presentation, we will walk with St. Monica in both her joys and sorrows, and see how her response to suffering raised her to the altar. Celeste will also talk about her own journey as the mother of four fallen-away adult children, and will share tips for staying close to our prodigals even while their restless hearts are wandering.

Tales from the Catholic Storyteller

Celeste will prepare, especially for your audience, a humor-laced talk that shows there is nothing as joyful as the Catholic life.

See what others have said about Celeste’s talks

“Absolutely loved your dry humor and honesty.” -Bayley M.

“That was better than the spa. I relaxed, laughed, and feel refreshed.” – Carrie M.

“I want more Celeste-isms!” – Anne M.

“This talk was amazing! Thank you for the tips and for the fun presentation.” –Weronika M.

“That had me laughing so hard I was crying. You have a gift!” -Laura A.

“She is so charming, quirky, and delightful! Totally the kind of mom I’d want as a mentor/friend.” -Christina F.

“I am also an Italian Catholic and it was such a joy to watch you as you remind me of my grandmother.” -Megan P.

“What a lovely, funny shot in the arm!” -Kathleen R.

Celeste Behe