Catherine's Cafe Vocation Blog

This past week a good friend was called to new life in God.     As one of Sister’s friends, I was invited to gather around the table with the Motherhouse liturgist and others who are involved in planning wake services and funeral liturgies for Sisters.     I felt honored to be called to participate in the design of the rituals celebrating the life of my friend.     This process was also very healing for me as I told story after story describing my experience of and participation in the life of Sister.  I think of her as a gentle woman, so peaceful, giving, and loving with the “too-numerous-to-count” first graders she taught to read and write. Sister masterfully instructed children in beginning mathematics.  There was no memorization of math facts in her classroom; she coached children how to arrive at answers through innovative exercises.  Most of all she loved, cherished, and affirmed each child.     As the shar...

Recently, I was at a funeral for a family member of a friend.  I never knew the person who had died but wanted to be present on the friend’s behalf. Toward the end of the service there was a eulogy given that painted as inspiring picture of the life of this beloved family member. As the life story unfolded, it was apparent how my friend is now one who inspires others with her generous heart.  She had been mentored since her birth within her family. I came away up lifted and inspired as well.  I got to know someone whom I will never meet.  This person’s life story returns to me and encourages me to seek God’s grace for growth.  Interesting how one life may touch another without ever having met. Oh yes, there are lots of celebrities or “rock stars” that have an impact on our lives.   There may be a big name person who inspires us but there are many others whose quiet lives have the capacity to bring beauty and grace to the world.  ...