My
parents were the first to create a small faith community with
their three children. Through their great desire to share the
Catholic faith and traditions, they sacrificed so much to give
us a Catholic education. Sisters of Mercy staffed the high school
I attended. The seeds of religious vocation were planted in my
childhood and nourished by the example of the sisters.
A major turning
point in my life took place when I was asked to serve as Director
of Religious Education in a parish that was established for the
Cape Verdean Community in New Bedford, MA. Being immersed in a
culture different than the Portuguese background of my ancestors,
expanded my understanding of Mercy. From this Cape Verdean community,
I learned the true meaning of hospitality. This faith community
nurtured my gifts of creativity and instilled in me a passion
to bring God's message of compassion and love to children as well
as to young adults.
I became
connected to the Jujenga Viongozi Reteat, a spiritual weekend
experience for Black Catholic high school and college students.
Being part of the diverse planning committee for this retreat
for the past ten years has not only brought me great joy, but
has also broadened my understanding of the message of the Gospel.
I am currently Director of Campus Ministry at Salve Regina University
in Newport. The beauty of the campus is breathtaking and the ministry
I share with a small faith community of two staff members is incredibly
uplifting! I have always loved sharing life with young people
because, while trying to discover their purpose in life, they
also ask the hard questions. Our ministry is exciting and fulfilling
because we are able to invent many different ways to bring young
adults together to enrich their spiritual journey. Besides providing
retreat opportunities, home cooked meals, etc., we are committed
to one-on-one encounters with all on campus.
I am also
currently involved in another ministry outside the University.
I am part of a team that presents a weekend Retreat program for
residents at the Bristol County House of Corrections. The retreats
are offered four times a year with a follow up prayer session
every week. It is a privilege for me to be part of this faith
community! I am filled with awe when I listen to the men tell
us that their time in jail is a blessing, connecting them once
again with God. For me, it is very exciting to see how the Word
of God is taking root in their hearts, giving them hope for a
new beginning.
My life within
the Mercy community has been filled with many other small communities
of faith. Each one has challenged me to reach out beyond my own
comfort zone. The first step is always the most difficult. The
rewards are boundless!
rsmmercy@aol.com
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