Vocation Formation News – November 2011

There is surely a future hope for you,
and your hope will not be cut off.
— Proverbs 23:18

BY SISTERS BARBARA THIFFAULT AND LUCY KEARNEY

During the last several months we have been in contact with a mature young woman from Kitchener, Ontario who, after doing a search on the internet, has expressed an interest in our Congregation. At her request, she spent two days, June 11 and 12, at the Motherhouse meeting with Sisters Nancy Wilson, Lucy Kearney and Barbara Thiffault because she felt attracted to our charism and ministries. Because she is discerning a possible call to religious life, she wanted to meet our Sisters to gain more insight into our lived experience. Since her visit in June, she has continued to remain in contact with us on a regular basis. At the present time she is seriously continuing her discernment with the help of a spiritual director. Let us pray for this gifted and highly educated woman who is attracted to ministering to the marginalized of our society.

Holy Cross Students Visit Motherhouse

Ten grade 9 to 12 students and two staff members from the Social Action Club at Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School, Kingston visited the Motherhouse on October 3rd. Following a short presentation on our Congregation and an explanation of the Volunteer Program, the students visited Marian II in anticipation of becoming volunteers. The interaction between the students and the Sisters has inspired some of the senior students to become volunteers at the Motherhouse.

And the one who was seated on the throne said,
“See, I am making all things new.”
— Rev. 21:5

Inter-Congregational Vocation Committee

The regular meetings of the Inter-Congregational Committee have continued with planning for various activities. Representatives from the Committee attended the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board system wide Community Faith Day on October 24th in Belleville. We provided a display consistent with and supportive of Catholic education.

On October 16th three members of the Committee in response to an invitation from St. John’s Parish, Gananoque participated in the parish retreat. Their presentation on the “Call to Discipleship” in keeping with their theme, “Come Follow Me”, was well received.

We can be awake and watchful for resurrections,
for the creative ways that new life streams
even in the midst of death. — Judy Cannato

Diocesan Joint Vocation Committee

The insights gained from the collaboration of the laity, clergy and religious are invaluable in our efforts to build a culture of vocation. Among other activities the Committee is exploring the possibility of holding a Vocation Fair in one of the parishes.