Catherine's Cafe Vocation Blog

What can simplicity mean in this complex society and multi-cultural world in which we find ourselves? The Scripture readings just talked about women who gave food and money to others when they were barely surviving themselves. Their gift was more than generous; it was an expression of their dependence on God and God’s providence. I continue to encounter women who want change in their lives and need the support to move forward and take the next step. Here in Waukegan this means empowering women of all ages to study to become citizens; this will allow them to have so much freedom and calm in their lives. These women are throwing in the ‘cost’ of their time and energy to move forward and this takes great strength. A woman 69 years old and 12 years a legal permanent is choosing to study the 100 questions for her citizenship exam – and she knows little English.   My offer to welcome her and assist her in learning the English and civics questions is little compared to her choice to ...

Living a Gospel centered life as a Dominican sister I find myself working with women and men struggling to integrate into the community by learning English and then passing a civics test to become a US citizen. I am honored to accompany them as they struggle to learn new vocabulary and a new history.  Martha told me in English class she wants to learn enough to start her own daycare; I am so proud of her. She is married and not able to bear children so she wants a daycare to care for the children of others. This is her dream, a goal, she plans to realize and she has taken progressive steps toward this. What are your dreams and plans to reach your dream? My dream is to be a faithful companion and help to empower women and men to meet their goals of integration into US society. Regular prayer sustains me in this ministry. Kathy Long, OP Waukegan, IL