Following in the footsteps of Mother Mary Rose, the foundress of the SNJMs is an exercise in the education of faith. It is one of commitment, promise, persistence, resilience, and constant learning to develop the confidence to cross many thresholds present in one’s life.
I was attracted to the SNJM Community because I had authentic examples of ordinary sisters and associates who inspired me. I became an associate the day my best friend, Reda, lost her husband, Gerry. The choir of associates sang at his funeral and Lorna asked me if I wanted to join them as an associate. I liked what I saw. Wow! This was a dream come true. It was the start of a beautiful friendship with the SNJMs.
Since then, more than a decade ago, Lorna, Pat, Louise, Brenda, Richard, Dorothy, Jeannie, Lise have crossed my path, encouraged me in my endeavors to hone the charism and remain true to my values of hospitality and nurturing to others. Who would have thought that at retirement, it would lead to founding ninnavita.org whose mission is to resource and nurture volunteers mentally, physically, and spiritually.
I am forever grateful to the SNJMs for my personal, community-oriented, and spiritual growth in pursuing God’s love in all aspects of my life. Thank you, Sisters and Associates, for helping me bloom where I am planted.