Novice Sister Cecilia Joy shares her mission experience with our Sisters at St. Francis Convent, West Point, NE. Her eleven hour road trip with Sister Thelma Weise from West Point, Nebraska went incredibly smooth, though she “now knows what Sisters mean when they say Iowa seems to stretch on forever.” After unpacking and settling back into the Novitiate routine, she shares her reflections.
What activities did you do/ministries did you shadow while on mission?
One of my highlights was being able to shadow the Communications Coordinator at St. Francis Memorial Hospital. It was a fun day of sharing stories, viewing each other’s work, and shadowing a type of position God might be calling me to in the future.
Describe “community life” based on your experience.
A lot of cooking and laughs. I enjoyed spending time with Sister Joy Rose, Sister Barbara Mathe, and Sister Elizabeth Ann Miller.
What were some memorable moments?
It was a joy to share and listen to farming stories from Guardian Angels Central Catholic students and St. Joseph Retirement Community residents alike. I also liked sitting in on some of Sister Joy’s meetings and in-services. Oh, and who could forget the cattle auction and volunteering at the movie theater!
Finish the Sentence: My time on mission taught me_________
that I can cook. I just need to continue growing in confidence.
Anything you’d like to say to sisters and readers viewing this article?
I’m so grateful I was sent to West Point for my mission experience. I now have a better understanding of why sisters who grew up in West Point are so friendly and sociable. If you are reading this article and you/someone you know is discerning religious life, please consider visiting our sisters. The best adventure is the one Jesus sends you on.
God calls you. We invite you to one of our coming retreats, a visit at a time that works for you or Camp Franciscan. Click here.
