“Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” (John 20:25)

Not only did Thomas in the Gospel have his doubts about Jesus’ resurrection, but I remember the time when I was discerning my call to religious life, I often doubted this call. Was it really a call from the Divine? Would I be able to live this call throughout my life or would I have to make another choice after a while? With such doubts, like Thomas, I began to bargain with God, “If you choose me to live the religious life, please give me a sign….” When I did not recognize any sign, I said, “This may not be my call.” Then, when I saw a sign, I said, “It may be just a coincidence.” I do not remember how many times I said such things to God.

“Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” (John 20:27)

This invitation is a faith challenge. One day, after I shared my doubts about my call with a Vocation Sister, she told me, “I think you have a religious call. Many people have this call as well. Then, so what? Not many people make this happen.”

“Why?” I asked. Continue reading →

As we journey together towards the “empty tomb,” let us remember:

Let us remember the holy self-gift of God in the Eucharist.

Let us remember, wait and pray as the story of the sacrificial cost of our salvation unfolds.

Let us remember and rejoice in Love who enfolds us and emerged from the “empty tomb” to ensure for us the promise of eternal life.

May you be blessed during these days of the Triduum and may you be filled with peace, hope, and joy at Easter!

Wading into the Water

The first time I heard the song Wade in the Water, I was attending Sunday services with a friend of mine at her church in Washington, DC. Having grown up in the Catholic Church, this song was not one I was familiar with. However, after a few measures – the beat took over my feet, hands and my entire body as we all began moving to the music. I still remember the heat of the church, the gardenia corsage the usher had pinned to my blouse, and a little boy dancing in the aisle. It is a song that has a deep visceral memory for me and it is one that soothes my soul when I feel the familiar beat and hear the tune swelling up to the rafters. It became a song that lapped against my life as I discerned God’s call to this life. Continue reading →