By Sr. Judy Donohue, SC Federation Apostolic Novice
On July 26, I finished up my vow prep retreat at the Mercy Retreat Center in St. Louis, MO.
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| artwork at the Mercy Retreat Center |
While there I met several people on retreat, and at mass. I noticed how meeting the two Mercy Sister Canonical novices for lunch, Kelly and Moira boosted my spirit. It was so nice seeing other women in the Novitiate. We shared the joys and challenges of being in formation.
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| some of my coloring |
During my retreat, I met with my spiritual director each day. It was freeing to share everything that was on my heart and to share with her my fears, hopes, dreams and feelings. She was a comforting listening ear. I walked the Labyrinth each day reflecting on the changing of directions and my own experience of changing feelings and paths. I did some colored pencil coloring, walking and quiet prayer in the chapel. In reflecting on God’s goodness to me to have come this far, I looked at what a grace the vows have been. Obedience reminds me to ask for help when I need it. I am not in this alone. Poverty reminds me to be a good steward of all I have been given. Chastity reminds me to treat each person with respect for we are all trying to do our best. I am grateful for my vocation and the time everyone has put into making me the person I am today.
I’ve also noticed at night before I go to bed, when I played free cell on my IPad that I could play again and again and again until I get it right. This helps me understand that God allows us to keep learning lessons until we get it right. This realization helps me to be patient with myself when I want to know everything now. I have to wait like everyone else. God’s love is more patient than mine. God is able to take me where God wants me to go. I have enjoyed the ride. Keep me in prayer for I will be making my vows in 24 days on August 26!
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