The Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities recently welcomed Maria Laura Fernandez as a new candidate with the congregation. During this first formal step in the process of discerning her religious vocation, she is living in community with our sisters, and spending time in prayer and ministry.
Maria says she feels a special call to the Franciscan way of life. “The Franciscan way of living has to do with joy and finding God’s nearness in everything,” she says. “The part I enjoy the most is finding God in the other person.”
Traveling all the way from Costa Rica in January, she spent time with our sisters in Syracuse, N.Y. and then traveled to Pittsburgh, Pa. Maria is enjoying getting to know our sisters and volunteering for Casa San Jose. Casa San Jose is a support center that links Latino immigrants in need with service providers and resources. An outreach of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden, it is located in the basement of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Pittsburgh’s Brookline neighborhood.
Maria said so far, her journey has been quite exciting. “I really believe that God has a great sense of humor and he works in mysterious ways. It’s been interesting!”
The Lord can be embraced in so many ways. He definitely has a sense of humor and works in mysterious ways. All blessings to you during this spiritual journey which the Lord has chosen you to do. Blessings to your family and friends. Congratulations and enjoy this beautiful vocation and journey. Que Dios te bendiga, Sra. Carmen Cooper
I am thrilled to learn of your interest in our sisters and as an associate member I warmly welcome you. Please know that your journey will be prayerfully supported by myself and my fellow associates. We will begin our prayers for you when we meet this week end at the Bethany House. As a person who greatly appreciates a sense of humor, I am glad that you recognize the tremendous help having one can be. I too am certain that God does indeed have a sense of humor. Laughter is good medicine and it is the music of the soul. We look forward to meeting you and welcoming you personally.
God bless you in your journey. I’m so excited to hear about you. P.s. Have fun with your sense of humor. Keep everyone guessing.
Maria, I am so excited for what your future holds! Prayers and blessings!
Thank you very much for all your prayers! Please continue praying that I may live this wonderful adventure with open heart. Blessings…