Guest Editorial

Change is a part of life

By Sr. Frances Brady, O.L.M.
May/June 2008

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Change can be difficult, in spite of much encouraging advice from writers in the fields of spirituality and psychology. It often means leaving behind the familiar, perhaps the comfortable, and the people and situations on which we have learned to depend. Knowing all the positive things – that to live means to change; that change brings new possibilities, new opportunities; that change can lead to personal growth-does not remove the pain and the struggle.

Our Lady's Missionaries leadership team, L-R: Srs. Frances Brady, Joan Missiaen, and Christine Gebel, with Sr. Anie Montejo (front) at the celebration of her first vows, February 2, 2008. Toronto.

As people of God we trust that God is present with us in the new and different as much as in the old and familiar, and that we will be guided to make the most of new situations.

In Brazil, the Philippines, and Nigeria, our Sisters continue to accompany the people with whom they serve through the ever-present changes and challenges in their lives. At the same time, they support local leaders who are getting ready to take full responsibility for community programs and ministries. Together they are preparing for future changes and learning to look for new possibilities.

When our Sisters return to Canada due to age or failing health, they leave behind many good friends and fruitful ministries in the mission where they served. Remaining in Canada means finding new ways to serve, perhaps in roles that require more supportive presence and less physical energy. Often we are fortunate to participate in ministries with other religious congregations and benefit from their experience of mission in Canada.

One such ministry is Becoming Neighbours, a network of members of religious congregations and their associates providing support and companionship for new immigrants and refugees in the Toronto area. This program came into being through the initiative of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Toronto and the collaboration of a number of other religious communities. With Becoming Neighbours we are able to be part of the global community in a new way, by welcoming newcomers to our native country as we have so often been welcomed in other lands. Here, we meet people who have truly experienced the most painful aspects of change. They have left behind all that is familiar and need help to make a home and a new way of life for themselves and their families.

Wherever we are, change is a part of life. To make the best of the new and different we rely on God's grace, which so often comes through the presence of other people and the help and support we give to one another.

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