A Gracious Choice, a Joyful “Yes”
Sr Emilienne reflects on her first “Yes” and her journey of self-giving with Mary
To be a Marist Sister is to be called by a gracious choice.
It is with great joy, gratitude, appreciation and thanksgiving that I made my first “YES” to religious life as a Marist Sister. I responded to this gracious call on the day when the Universal Church and the entire Marist Family celebrate the Holy Name of Mary. This was very significant for me.
During my retreat in preparation for my vows, which had as its theme “To love is to give everything and to give oneself, as Mary did,” I received the keys I needed to live the life of Christ as a Marist Sister. I was also reminded always of the difference between “giving everything” and “giving oneself”, and of walking each day along the path of self-giving with Mary.
Surrounded by the affection and prayers of all the Marist Sisters throughout the world, the Marist Family, my family and my friends, I felt confident and supported. I knew that the prayers and support of all these people, near and far, were united with me as I made my gift of myself to the Church.
I pray that the Virgin Mary will help me to renew my “YES” every day by living these values and virtues.
Sr Emilienne
