That's
why, today, three of us journey with women as they move from the
"maybe I am interested" phase through possible
acceptance into membership and then, onward toward perpetual vows.
In this team ministry, we give support and companionship both to
our new members and to each other.
I bring creativity and
vision to our work together. But, our work is
challenging. For example, today young adults take
more time in building relationships - eight years is an average
for learning about Sisters and developing trust enough to
enter. Moreover, Sisters are much fewer in number in
educational and parish contexts. We are simply not as
visible as in the "old days."
We also know that the sins and
limitations of our Church impact future Church-related life choices for both men
and women. And, Catholic parents do not typically know enough about
Sisters' lives to be able to encourage their young adult to enter, or even
consider, religious life.
At the same time, there's good news!
I work with the finest young adults in
decisions that are important in their lives. These young adults are
willing to accept challenges, have a keen sense of their own spirituality, and
are oriented toward generous service.
I enjoy giving retreats, and I use my
creativity as an artist in presentations, advertisements, and brochures that
reach new members. I see great hope and great purpose in all that I
do!
I have earned an
undergraduate degree in theology at Marquette University, and an
art masters from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Both of these areas have been very helpful as I move among many
circles of persons and create relationships- this is an important
foundation for our new membership efforts.
I have also completed
post-graduate courses in spiritual direction, counseling skills,
and interviewing techniques. And, I've developed
administration and business skills as I've grown my art career and
art studio business.
I've also benefited from continual
professional renewal through annual conferences, mentoring, and international
month-long workshops related to new membership and vocations work.
I guess I have made many,
many contributions to attracting potential new
members. As a professional artist, I have made many
presentations, and always identify myself as a member of the
Sisters of the Divine Savior.
My art studio is on the
campus of our high school. I've taken a very active
role in our leadership award process, which targets our high
school's graduates and recognizes their leadership in civic and
church communities.
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