Editor's note: Endings and beginnings

I'M FEELING THE THEME of this edition full force these days. I’m learning that for me, retirement holds a mix of both sadness at endings and excitement at new possibilities—grief and new life. When I first envisioned this edition, I didn’t realize I’d soon be gripped by mixed emotions very similar to what our articles address. 

On the one hand, vocation ministers are mourning the losses that are part of this era in religious life—losses of beloved people, properties, and ministries. On the other hand, vocation ministers continue to cultivate new life, promoting consecrated life and inviting a new generation. It’s a tricky balance, but as our writers deftly point out, that combination  of death intertwined with new life is core to our faith.

One theme our writers bring up is the importance of gratitude in the face of grief, and that is true for me as I pass the torch of HORIZON editor on to Jesús Leyva. I’m grateful that a talented man of faith is stepping into this role. And I’m incredibly grateful to the many wonderful men and women I’ve worked with over the last three decades. You’ve inspired me, made me laugh, made me think, and helped me to stretch and grow in my faith. Thank you. 

Now it’s time for me to lean on all that I’ve learned about discernment as I carve out my next steps. You all have taught me to listen to my heart, listen to the community and its needs,  and listen to God. I’m honored to now be among the vocation ministry “cloud of witnesses”—people who once served in this vital ministry who continue to uplift the notion that God calls us each by name. Onward!

—Carol Schuck Scheiber, editor