It’s hard to believe that it’s been four years since I arrived at Mater Ecclesiae College as a little freshman. I came full of hopes and expectations for the mission I was beginning in studying a B.A. in Religious and Pastoral Studies with a minor in Philosophy, and excited to jump into a life dedicated to God and service.
It didn’t take long before I realized that enthusiasm is only part of the equation; there was so much I needed yet to learn and to experience about life, myself, others, and the world around me. My classes in spirituality, psychology, philosophy, theology, communication, and pastoral work have challenged me to think and understand from new perspectives, stretching my capacity to relate to others and God. As well, the numerous leadership, service, and mission outreach opportunities I’ve had have opened my eyes and heart to a greater vision of the world and the material, spiritual, and moral needs of people today. I never imagined that I’d be in Mexico for Holy Week missions two years in a row, participating in college-level Parliamentary debate competitions, an editor for our the MEC Publications Office, traveling to Vermont monthly to help train Challenge youth group leaders, and form such deep friendships with fellow MEC students of diverse cultural backgrounds (Spain, New Zealand, Mexico, El Salvador, Canada, Columbia, Chile, and Brazil, besides the US).
In July, I’ll be moving to Houston, Texas for my two years of internship, where I’ll continue my discernment with the Consecrated Women of Regnum Christi. There, I’ll be an assistant campus minister at Northwoods Academy, a Catholic K-8 school. I’m excited to finally get to jump more full-time into youth and family work, and to explore Texas!
I ask all my friends and family to pray for me and the rest of MEC’s Class of 2014, as we begin a new chapter in our lives and graduate this Saturday, May 31st! I am thankful for all the support and prayers I’ve received from you these past years, and know that I wouldn’t be where I am today without you.
“For God who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to bring to light the knowledge of the glory of God on the face of Jesus Christ. But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us.” (2 Corinthians 4: 6, 7)
