YES

The final days of my orientation have arrived. For 11 weeks my new friends and I have been preparing for our lives as missioners.

We came to Maryknoll with the desire to answer the call to live the lives God is calling us to. It seems fitting that we sign our covenant at Mass on the feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Today, Dec 8th we reflect on Mary's Yes. Mary's willingness to embrace the life as the mother of Jesus. The scripture readings today recall the angel telling Mary "do not be afraid."

As I say yes to living as a missioner I take comfort in these words. I am very excited about my life ahead. However, it comes with some fear and sacrifice. My greatest fear is learning a new language. And my greatest sacrifice is having to say goodbye to my family and friends. I know the days ahead will be filled with joy and some sadness. Saying goodbye is going to be very difficult. But I feel very    blessed to have so much support in my life. Today I say yes to a life as a missioner a way to live out my hearts desire.    
                                                                                                      

From the back row, left to right.            

Chris (Africa-TZ), Rick (El Salvador), Darren (El Salvador)
Katie (TZ), Dee (Cambodia)
David (TZ), Mabel (TZ), Hyun Jung (Brazil)
Caitlin (TZ), Carolyn (Brazil), Nena (Bolivia)
Gloria (Bolivia), Isabel (Brazil), Maria (Cambodia)
Sirikit (Brazil), Donna (Bolivia)