A Jubilee in the Jubilee

Sr. M. Margaret reflects on
her 25 years of Religious Life.

I am grateful to God for 25 years of Religious Life. It is hard to believe it has been that long. As I look back, I thank God for everything I have experienced, for the joys and sorrows, the challenges and many blessings. When I reflect on my many experiences in my apostolate as a teacher, I think about the numerous spiritual children that God has blessed me with. I have a multitude of memories and stories I could tell of my teaching experience as well as my community experiences. I know that god has been present through it all. In the beginning, he said to me, "Veni Si Amas," "Come if you love." I am grateful for that first call and the grace to respond to that call. I pray that my life has been a joyful surrender, a sacrifice of praise to God through my service, through my vows and the gift of self. I look back and I look forward with joy and gratitude. Each day is a new beginning, a new opportunity. In this Year of Mercy, this jubilee year in the Church, I think, "Wow! What a wonderful time to celebrate my 25th Jubilee!" I have also reflected on the fact that I professed my final vows in the Jubilee Year 2000 declared by Pope St. John Paul II. Now, Pope Francis has declared this jubilee year and we are all called to receive the MANY graces that our Lord has for us. It is by his love that we have been called, and it is by his love that we remain in his service. Let us together rejoice in his merciful love. I thank God for my call as a Sister of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George for these past 25 years, and I pray, God willing, for many more years of grace and blessings remaining ever close to his heart.

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