by Sr. Rose Anthony Mathews, ASC
In 1950, my Prairie du Rocher graduating class of 19 chose as our motto: LAUNCH OUT INTO THE DEEP. As the valedictorian I wrote something but Sr. Mary Florence, my eighth-grade teacher, revised it quite a bit.
At age 14, my world was smaller than small, but it would get bigger because in our yearbook, I was going to become an airline stewardess! Unfortunately, I remember nothing of what I may have said graduation night, nor did I become an airline stewardess! However, over the years I have reflected on the motto many times. In fact, I was reminded of it when I saw LIGHT BECKONS US TO ALL THINGS NEW as we prepared for our 2024 Regional Assembly.
On July 1, 2024, I celebrated 70 years as an Adorer of the Blood of Christ (ASC). I was almost speechless but so very grateful as I reflected on some of the “launchings” I have experienced during my 60 years of ministry and 70 years of life in community.
At times the waters of life seemed to engulf me but always there was a rowboat, raft, or person grabbing my hand and keeping me from drowning.
Each and every day has been GIFT. If there are any words that summarize my life, they are CONNECTED (relationships) and GIFT. Although “launched” in many different places and in many different ways, I, NOW, not only KNOW but FEEL connected. I can only marvel at how everything is GIFT…. connected (in communion) with the Giver of all gifts!
Paths have crossed in unexpected ways and places. Dreams have been realized in collaboration with and for the “dear neighbor”. In many ways, our 2024 Regional Assembly missioning statement: WE HAVE SET OUR HEARTS FOR THE WAY is another launching into the deep! Do not fear. We are gifts to and for each other. We are connected. We are community. We are on the way!