On Mission in Alaska

"...set out for any place where the work is great and difficult, but where also with the help of Him who sent us, we shall open the way for the Gospel." These words from our founder, Fr. Samuel Mazzuchelli, have always stirred in my heart. At different points in my life I felt called to go to places, not necessarily more difficult, but far away from the center of our community. I am now in Alaska.

Juneau is a medium-sized city, but what makes this place unique is that it is not on the road system--our road is the water, called the marine highway. Being the only woman religious in the city is both a blessing and a challenge; a blessing because for many people I am the face of compassion and a witness to God's love given as gift to them, and a challenge because of the distance between me and other sisters in my community. My support is not close by, but comes through e-mails and phone calls.


But when God calls, God never leaves us without resources. Parishioners have welcomed me with open arms, inviting me into their homes and into their lives. The natural beauty here is God's awesome gift to us. Canoeing near the glacier--how much more awesome can it get!
Sr. Marie Lucek, OP
Juneau, Alaska