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On August 14th my religious community, family and friends
gathered in Saint Henry De Osso Chapel for what amounted to be one of the
best, if not the best day of my life, my first profession of vows. It was
a long awaited day, one that I had started dreaming about in the seventh
grade, and it was well worth the wait.
I first met the Teresian
Sisters when I was nineteen and a sophomore in college. I was
convinced that God desired for me to be a religious and not knowing what
else to do, I opened the phone book, looked under the Archdiocese of New
Orleans and discovered that there was a vocation office. I called and
was quickly transferred to Sr. Marina who insisted that I come talk to her.
Shortly after that first encounter, I was invited to help the Saint Mary
Magdalene Community serve a Thanksgiving lunch at Ozanam Inn, and the rest is
history. |
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So, you might ask
what attracted me to this particular community. There are many answers but
perhaps the best would be the sisters’ humanness and great joy in serving the
Lord by loving His people especially through education. One does not have to
spend long with the Teresians to know that the love of Christ is just pouring
out of them from every direction, in their big hugs, big smiles and the way they
make you feel as if you are the only person that matters at that moment. I knew
that love could only come from one place, their relationship with their God.
What more could I ask for?
So after years of
searching and discernment I could say nothing else than “Take, Lord, receive,
all is yours now.” All was a gift, so now I return it by offering You my life
through my first profession of vows. And wow, what a celebration it was!
First, there was a beautiful Mass that many of my family and community members,
as well as friends were able to attend. During the Mass, Fr. Thomas gave an
inspirational homily and I received my veil, crucifix and the Constitutions.
Then there was a reception like no other. There was food, flowers, and two
delicious cakes. Finally, to conclude the day, I have to sign my name for the
first time with those wonderful initials, STJ. It could not have been a better
day! The presence of God was evident throughout the mass and in the love of
those who joined. It was the beginning of the rest of my life, and truly a day
that I will never forget!
May
God bless each of you for your prayers, love and support!
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Sr.
Margaret Ann with her family |
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Sr. Margaret Ann with her
Community |
èSr.
Maruchi's Vows
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