“I believe there’s a calling for all of us. I know that every human being has value and purpose. The real work of our lives is to become aware. And awakened. To answer the call.”
                                                                                                Oprah Winfrey

Eight women are currently discerning their call to become SSJ associates. Sister Mary Fromknecht presented “Theology of Call” to these candidates during a recent formation session. In her presentation, she explained her understanding of the term “theology of call.” It is a gift of faith seeking to make a commitment to service under God’s direction. Sister Mary explained that as Sisters of St. Joseph, associates and agrégées, we are called to be unifiers and reconcilers in the world. She thinks of it as being bridge builders building relationships and bringing about unity and reconciliation. Sister Mary concluded her presentation with a passage from the Sisters of St. Joseph Constitutions which reads: We are women who affirm our mission of unity of neighbor with neighbor and neighbor with God. Our mission is rooted in the mission of Jesus Christ, the same mission which continually unfolds in the Church.

That all may be one, as you, Father are in me and I in you. I pray that they may be one in us. John 17:21

As I listened to Sister Mary’s presentation, it was an opportunity for me to reflect on my own call to live the SSJ charism and mission. The words from the song, The Summons, came to mind: Will you come and follow me if I but call your name…

It was a reminder that I have been called to enhance God’s mission in the world – to live fully the gospel message that all may be one. That’s what makes the SSJ Mission Possible.