Transformed by Mission

Img 0974

After my sophomore year of college, I spent a profoundly graced summer serving at the SOLT summer camp in Belcourt, ND: it changed the trajectory of my life.

I spent every spring and summer break in Belcourt for the remainder of my college years. After graduation, I returned to serve in youth ministry before entering the convent. I loved my time as a volunteer, and I always encourage high school and college students to spend a year or more serving in mission, regardless of what they feel is their vocation, because I have seen and experienced what a time of growth it is.

Several lessons stand out when I consider how that time prepared me for my vocation.  These were intellectual truths that I believed with my mind, but had to experience in order to know them in my heart. Grace is real. Jesus wants to work through me to impact the lives of others. I have something to give. I can do nothing without Him. I am not alone. He is always calling me deeper. He is always about his work in my heart and in my life, regardless of what is perceivable. These are truths that He continues to teach me as I seek to love Him and His people for the rest of my life.

Sr. Mary Joy of Our Father Bernklau, SOLT is originally from Oregon. She professed her final vows in 2017 and is currently serving in Benque Viejo, Belize.

February 7, 2022 - 9:50am
Categories: 

Latest Posts

A Word of Thanks

It is with great gratitude and a heart full of thanksgiving that I conclude ten years of service as the General Sister Servant. God...Read more

Responding to God’s Call to Serve as Family

Ginny and Deacon Cal Cathers were introduced to SOLT in 1964 by a friend who knew about a new Catholic missionary community that recently...Read more

Planting Seeds of Faith

“I planted, Apollos watered, but God caused the growth.” 1 Corinthians 3:18

From the very beginning of the Church,...Read more

Subscribe to Blog