... On the Road

Life is Good! God has really blessed me this past month with a wide variety of experiences and travels!
We took a long road trip down to Florida for the National Conference on Catholic Youth Ministry and to stay with our Sisters in Tampa. It was wonderful to see a Salesian elementary school and get to speak with many of the students about what we're doing and how we're studying to be Sisters. They were precious and had some really great questions and enthusiastic comments! It made me miss teaching, but also look forward to implementing St. John Bosco's education system of Reason, Religion and Loving Kindness, into a future classroom. My favorite parts were playing four square in the mornings before school (yes in December, loved that warm, Florida weather!), and Sister Principal dedicating "My God" from Sister Act over the intercom to us while we danced down the hallways! Always an adventure with this crowd! We did some traveling back and forth to Orlando for the Conference where we had a booth explaining our mission with the young and were able to make connections with many youth ministers. It was a great networking opportunity and chance to catch up with some old friends. We also made visits to one of our Co-ed high schools and a Salesian parish. It's great to see the charism lived out in each of these different environments. One of our days included morning prayer on the beach, followed by an afternoon in DISNEY WORLD! It was the best day ever! I had several new experiences, though riding a rollercoaster in a dress was definitely one of the strangest! As I strapped myself in with my Aspirant Sisters on both sides I thought to myself, "I wouldn't rather be anywhere else, with anyone else." What a beautiful grace and affirmation!

After a wonderful time getting to know the four Sisters there and see how a smaller community lives, we loaded up for another Road Trip to Champaign, Illinois. The Sisters there live and work in the University of Illinois. It was incredible to see a huge Catholic dorm and church in the middle of a State University. They have a beautiful ministry working with the college students and helping with many activities, mission trips and retreats the young people are participating in. The rapport established by the Sisters really made it easy for us to interact with and relate to the students. We took a tour of the campus, sang Christmas carols, hung out in the cafeteria, went to Mass and even got to be on the college schedule. And of course I enjoyed being back in the Midwest! There's something freeing about the open highway with fields on both sides and people waving as you pass by.

Our trip was full of quality time together in the van, watching youtube videos, singing loudly to the radio, listening to dramatic readings of the life of St. John Bosco (our homework), praying, bonding and eating a lot of icecream! Since returning we are definitely getting in the Christmas spirit with a sugar cookie decorating contest, caroling, Christmas concerts, decorating the house, looking at Christmas lights, and a trip to NYC to see the lights, displays and big tree! Amidst all the busyness, I hope that you are preparing your heart in a special way this Advent season for the true meaning of Christmas! May we make this a true time of hope and humbleness looking for ways to offer ourselves and our treasure to those most in need.This delightful time of year, we realize the greatest gift we have to celebrate is the birth of Jesus our Savior!

... To Weather the Storms

Hurricanes, Halloween, Snow storms ... they all take some preparation. Life has been a little sideways the past two weeks. Just when I thought I was starting to settle into a routine, the schedule was blown out the window!  I learned what kinds of preparations to make for a hurricane, sort of similar to a Kansas ice storm: filling pans with water for drinking and filling tubs for flushing toilets, bringing in all the outdoor furniture to prevent it from blowing into the house, closing the blinds in case a window should break, making sure everyone had flashlights, cleaning out the fridge and freezer to know what you have to eat first, and stocking up on water, batteries, and gasoline. Hurricane Sandy closed our school down for a week and many for longer. Much of the area was without power, heat, hot water, and now gas to run a generator or drive to another location. However, it is beautiful and encouraging to see the outpouring of aid being sent and volunteer efforts to help those suffering from the storm.



St. Philomena, St. Michael the Archangel, St. Patrick
Mary Help of Christians with the Child Jesus, Laura Vicuna



Halloween in the area was "postponed" due to the storm damage, but not at our house! It was probably more fun planning and assembling our costumes than actually wearing them. We spent a good portion of our afternoon trying on and tacking together everything from a Bishops' staff, Mary's scepter, a tin foil covered shield and a palm branch. As it was the eve of the Feast of All Saints Day we dressed up as different saints and made a surprise visit down to where our elderly Sisters live. It was the warmest reception I've ever had for a Halloween parade and they were so excited to find out which saint we were.

  

Snow day!



Last Wednesday we experienced our first SNOW of the season. It was very wet, and not too cold, just enough to make a picturesque winter scene in the front yard. Again, preparations were made, like putting a shovel at every entrance and taking the long inside passage to the chapel instead of the outside slippery sidewalk. And, after all that, we settled into our blankets and boots in front of the window and watched the glittery flakes fall ... so perfect and unique.



This time of preparation has definitely been a time of personal growth, in knowledge and spiritually. Abandonment of my schedule, my plans, my will ... learning from the examples of those who've gone before. We've been reading about three Salesian boys who studied at Don Bosco's school and they were outstanding witnesses to the faith. Never afraid to stand up to their peers, they always had a quick comment to direct others on the right path. For example, when Mickey Magone overheard some of his classmates talking about something inappropriate he started whistling really loudly. They asked him what was wrong with him and he replied, if you're going to have such a rude conversation, why can't I be just as rude to interrupt it? And after that they were more careful in their speech around him. What an impact that one memorable but small encounter had on others! Instead of expecting others to act, think, speak like we think they should, can't we show them how and help them get there? It's not enough to set the example, sometimes we have to use our words and explain ourselves. I was thinking about how easy it is for me to be patient with students and kids, but how hard it can be sometimes with adults. Just because I know something, doesn't mean others have had that experience or have learned that about themselves; we have to appreciate our differences, but also share our knowledge. As we continue this time of formation, I pray for perseverance and fortitude in weathering the storms that life sends our way.

Here, there and Ohio ...

The last few weeks we've been on the road a bit, traveling near and far in our 12 passenger van. It's been exciting and sometimes challenging, but definitely never dull.
Our excursions have included:
-Salesian Retreat Center, Stony Point, NY; Some of our students attended a leadership retreat here and we were invited to the closing Mass to celebrate with them and share in the joy they experienced as they learned more about who God is calling them to be in their school and communities. It was an incredible Mass followed by a true Salesian style Dance Party! We had a great time and enjoyed our own dance party in the car on the way home!
-Catholic Underground, NYC; This month after the adoration hour and evening prayer led by the Franciscans of the Renewal there was a play depicting the letters between St. Therese and the Seminarian Maurice. It was a beautiful story of the spiritual brotherhood they shared and the encouragement offered by two souls seeking holiness through their vocation. I love seeing all the different priests, religous brothers and sisters and young adults at these events in the City. It's very hopeful to know that people are desiring to spend time with Jesus and in fellowship even in the midst of their busy lives.
-The Sisters' houses in Newton, NJ; We went for Columbus Day to visit our Sisters out in Newton, a short drive from here. It was a wonderful fall day and the leaves were beginning to change out in the retreat center foresty backyard. We took a walk to see the property, enjoyed lunch and had a little music jam session complete with bongos! A short drive down the road led to a tour of the summer camp ending our day visiting. It was so nice to meet and spend time with more of our Sisters and see the different ministries.
-Franciscan University, Ohio; We made a quick trip down to Steubenville, Ohio for the Vocations Fair at Franciscan. Meeting and hanging out with the students was a lot of fun and it was also incredible to see all the different orders and diocese represented. There was one habit it particular that was really beautiful: white with a purple scapular and purple trim - good thing that's not the reason I'm with the Salesians! :) My favorite question of the day came when Shannon and I were playing volleyball with some of the children at the fair. After I explained to a student that our mission as Salesians is working with the youth and that includes a variety of ministries, he asked, "So did you bring these kids with you?" Love it! We ended the fair with a lovely Mass packed full of students, sisters, brothers, seminarians, and quite a few priests. It's inspiring to see the complementary vocations in the church and people so happy living their vocations.
-NFL Night - our house; We made it back in time for NFL Basketball night ... I know sounds like a mistake! We had about 10 NFL players who are part of the Dreams for Kids program come and play basketball against our students and staff, the local Army and police/fire departments. We had a great turn out and a really good excuse to get the community involved with our school and kids. The best part was the NFL players taking pictures with our Sisters, because they were celebrities to them! Sr. Mary making a 3-pointer definitely added to her credibility.

This is the view from our study room and the tree I climbed to say my rosary yesterday! :)

Yesterday we had a day of retreat and I was able to reflect a little on all the work God has been doing in my heart, even in the midst of all these exciting events and new adventures. I've been feeling a little overwhelmed and stressed, definitely part of the adjustment to a new way of life! The Gospel yesterday was about the fig tree that hadn't produced any fruit. I was feeling very able to identify with that in my struggles! And then the gardener (Jesus) steps in and says, just give it some more time, I'll dig up the earth around it and spread some manure on it and then we'll see. Being a farm girl, I especially liked the translation that said manure. I felt as though God was saying, "All these trials and little irritations may seem like 'manure' to you, but they are for your own good. They are helping you to grow and stretch so that eventually, you'll be able to bear the fruit I know you are capable of doing. Even though your life may seem unproductive right now, give it time; be patient." It was just such a comforting time to spend with Jesus in Adoration, outside in prayer, spiritual reading, in silence and alone. God always knows just what we need! I am truly feeling refreshed and joyful to praise God throughout another day! You are in my prayers! Please pray for the safety of those affected by Hurricane Sandy.

... In Search of Detachment

In reflecting on this past week, I can't count the number of times I've heard or read or thought about detachment. It's not always a common topic in our world today, where most of society is telling us to store up wealth, posessions, material goods ... you know. I'm not talking about detachment from wearing different jewelry each day, enjoying "jean days" versus our lovely blue jumpers, personalized decorations in my room, or even familiar foods, although those are definitely small parts of this adjustment process and necessary in this life. But as my Mom told me once, "April, just because you are getting rid of everything you own, doesn't mean we have to." I know that to an extent these material goods are necessary and good, just as long as they are not the greatest good. When Don Bosco went to visit what would be the future Salesian Sisters in Mornese, Italy for the first time, "he found such detachment from earthly things and such enthusiasm for heavenly goods in those simple girls." How beautiful! I hope one day, those words can be true for myself.
There are many ways to be detached, in addition to "leaving everything behind".

• Detachment from our own ideas and opinions. Choosing to do something for someone else or following their advice, even when its a sacrifice. Not having to be right or heard every time we have something to share.
• Detachment from being comfortable. We have a great love for our comfort zone in spending time with only people similar to us, being in a comfortable environment, and not being stretched: usually not how God wants us to live out our faith. On the feast of St. Francis yesterday we had a great reminder of detachment from comfort, living in true poverty and the joy that came from it! Even small mortifications like not eating your favorite comfort food, or offering a more comfortable chair to someone else can be a good reminder of this.
• Detachment from the people we love. It's difficult not to be frustrated or hold a grudge against someone who hasn't made the same effort to maintain a relationship. We can be detached from the desire to receive their attention, time, and effort, while praying for them and still being a good friend or family member to show them we care. Most of the time, they have good intentions, just aren't always the best at showing it! Assume the best. My wise friend shared with me this week, "You aren't leaving us behind, we just have to learn how to share!" What a fantastic point of view.
• Detachment from our plans, because often they change! I don't know how many times I've thought, I'll do that this afternoon or this morning I'm going to ... and then it doesn't happen. Just knowing that all we can do is do our best, and do everything with right intention. If we are really using our time well, not being lazy, and putting God first, He will bless our efforts and make sure we have the grace to complete all we have to do. Time management is huge when you are on a set schedule! I've learned if you have a minute, use it!

There are many more things you can add to this list, but I'll let you do the reflecting on what He might be asking you to detach from this week. I want to leave you with this quote from St. Mary Mazzarello, "Don't be attached even to a prayer book or holy card, but to God alone, because He alone can make us completely happy." Amen!

Party with the FMA

I have attached our Aspirant performance of: "Party With the F.M.A." The initials FMA stand for Figlie di Maria Ausiliatrice which is Italian for Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, the formal name for the Salesian Sisters. We thought it was especially appropriate, because as St. Don Bosco knew well, God is fun!

... To The Convent

One month ago I was packing my bags full of white shirts, black shoes and stockings ...preparing to move halfway across the country. I will say, it has been a whirlwind, but not a tornado.
I'm adjusting to many things: new house, new classmates, new wardrobe, and a new schedule. And these have led to another "new" thing: a new outlook. Or maybe just fresh perspective.
We have been learning about St. Mary Mazzarello, the woman who, with St. John Bosco, founded the Salesian Sisters. She was a very ordinary woman of extraordinary faith and strength.  After she fell ill to the Typhoid fever, she decided to take up sewing to develop a skill that she could excel in, even without her former strength and knew she could use this skill to reach the girls she wanted to help in the community. I've been reflecting on how she decided to make "every stitch an act of love for God" and encouraged others to do the same. What a beautiful spin on her life being dramatically changed by a deadly disease. And just think, this can be applied to anything. Especially those tasks we don't particularly enjoy. Wash every pot, scrub every floor, patiently wait at each red light, attentively listen to each person, ... as an act of love for God. How beautiful each day can be if we look at all these little contradictions as opportunities.
It's been one month since I arrived here in New Jersey, following God's call to join the Salesian Sisters as an Aspirant.
Here are a few of the new things I've learned in the past month about life in the convent:
1. Living in community is fantastic, there's always someone around to ... pray with, talk to, laugh with, take a walk, ask questions, help with homework, paddle boat on the pond, and be an ecouragement.
2. Microwaving popcorn can result in fires ...
3. If you're playing volleyball, be on Sr. Ramona's team.
4. We love to laugh here ... a lot, its good for everyone.
5. You're not "leaving" your family, just adding to it ... 14,000 sisters around the world.
6. The high school girls may not be super awake first thing in the morning, but if your greeting is awkward enough, they will smile and it's hard to ignore someone who knows your name.
7. You can play sports, chase turkeys, scrub pots and mop floors in a jumper ... good thing the navy is dark!
8. Taking classes from Sisters, (in your own community), gives a whole new meaning to wanting to do your work well, and not complaining about homework, studying etc.
9. It's amazing how difficult the notes you can sing easily in the afternoon, are to hit at 6 a.m.
10. How beautiful it is to do everything with a community of people who are all striving to live their lives for the Glory of God through the service of Youth.

This is a picture from our "Medal Ceremony". Friday night we were officially accepted as Aspirants into the community. Pictured here are my Aspirant sisters, l to r: Me, Shannon, Chelsea, Sr. Karen (our provincial), Kristen, Katie and Sr. Phyllis (our formator).