When words just don't cut it...

We are practicing writing down our “gratitudes” for Lent… 5 things we are grateful for every day x 40 days x 3 people (it’s beginning to sound like one of my student’s math problems…).

With so many amazing people in our lives, our wall is filling up effortlessly.

We sit here, surrounded by love: gorgeous letters from our retreat hung on our walls, maxims decorating our doors, dinners filling our bellies, and spirit moving among us.

As spring begins to bloom and we feel reenergized for the next three months, as St. Joseph’s Day approaches, we want to say thank you.

We have had some difficult and trying experiences in our time so far, and moments of joy and awe. Through it all we have been acutely aware of Your presence in our lives.

We have compiled a list of moments/experiences/people/things that have directly influenced our Mission Corps experience thus far, that have made our lives exponentially better, and that we can’t imagine living without. Know that each and every one of You have helped us make it through this year and stay (somewhat) sane. Over and over again we had the privilege to answer the question, “What is the SSJ Mission Corps?” We’ve found the answer to be long, but simple. Here are just a few examples that popped into our heads after a long day and even longer week:

·     Becca Little-Bex-the Bexster

·     Unforgettable retreat experiences with unforgettable women

·     The 11 convents and counting that have welcomed us (multiple times!)

·     Meeting the associates at Our Lady of Hope

·     The Welcome Center Trivia night

·     Having a “usual” at the Kensington Mini Mart

·     Our Students…even that one

·     Our incredible co-workers who inspire, encourage, assist, and put up with us

·     Sharing the state of the heart

·     Receiving three containers of Christmas decorations

·     Receiving donations for classrooms and classroom prizes

·     Re-discovering our home city, and exploring the gems that Kensington has to offer

·     The immigration reform rally

·     Visits from UNC

·     Going back to our Mother Ship at Chestnut Hill for multiple events: Commissioning Mass (and dinner!) Founder’s Day, Peace Vigil for Syria, Greg Boyle’s talk, Band of Sisters film, Visitation BVM fundraising auction…

·     Spirituality and Community nights

These events and people have become an integral part of our Mission Corps program, and our lives—not just a year, but a lifetime.