I am NRVC

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What roles do you play in vocation ministry?

I'm the vocation director for my community, the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose. In addition I'm one of the coordinators for the West Coast member area.

How long have you been involved in vocation ministry?

After I made my perpetual profession in August 2015 I became the vocation director. Before that I was on our vocation team for two years, mainly helping at discernment weekends and making flyers for events.

What do you enjoy most about this ministry?

I greatly enjoy accompanying young women on their sacred journey to deepen their sense of self and find out how they are called. I am always amazed at the work of the Holy Spirit leading the process. It is a privilege to be part of their journey.

Has being a member of NRVC been helpful?

Yes, I met some wonderful vocation directors when I took summer classes in 2014. I am still in touch with many of them. In fact a small group of us created a Peer Supervision Group, and we have been meeting for almost two years. Being a member helps me to be updated in this ministry and keeps me active. I like belonging to a professional organization where I can get the support I need.

What have been some of your best vocation efforts?

One thing going well for me is meeting online (on Zoom) with groups of discerners once a month. I also meet with them individually, but the Zoom meetings let them share their stories with fellow discerners and compare notes. It provides additional support for those who may feel they are making this journey alone. Meeting online is convenient as it fits most people’s schedules, and we do not need to travel.

In terms of internal vocation efforts, many sisters in my community are curious about how I spend my days. To help them be part of the ministry, I send them a monthly e-newsletter. Last March Sister Deborah Borneman, SS.C.M. did an in-service for my community about contemporary vocation ministry. I also visit our local houses to talk about how best to support discerners and promote vocations. One sister commented that it is “empowering” to be included in the ministry!

Contact Sister Mary at mary@msjdominicans.org.