The Advent of My Life

When I arrived at the Maryknoll Lay Missioner Orientation program in September I really did not have any idea of what was in store for me.  Many people mistakenly think I am in language school and so they ask me about my Portuguese.  I have picked up one or two more words but I will not begin my language training until I arrive in Brazil in January.  Instead I have been going through a training that involves a variety of topics from practical issues for the every day life of a missioner to theological reflection.  


What I have found is that the MKLM Orientation Programs has evolved into a time of advent in my life.  Advent is a time of preparing, a time of dying to self, and a time to prepare for the coming of the Lord.  This season is a journey of waiting in prayer and anticipation for the coming of a new life.  I find myself in a season of advent.  I am preparing for a new beginning, a new adventure, a new way of living, a new reality, a new set of relationships, new struggles, new challenges, and new joys.  All of which I believe will lead me to prepare the kingdom of God.  Through the joys, pain and suffering of the poor in Brazil I will continue my journey in order to make my life in God and in order to answer the call to prepare the way of the Lord.


Advent is a time of waiting and preparing.  Here in New York I have been preparing for my mission to Brazil.  I have been waiting to be sent overseas.  In the waiting and in the preparing I have found a peace and a calmness. So this advent I have a new understanding of the season.  I am able to embrace the moment and enjoy my time here at Bethany.