I have now finished the formal training in San Antonio and I have returned to see family one last time and pack for Peru. Writing a blog takes some adjustment for me because I favor privacy but this is a more efficient means of communication so practicality wins. At the moment, I prefer to post content that has helped to shape my time and let it create its own story with you. I do feel more like a historian than a blogger but be patient, when I transition to living in Peru I am sure I will wax poetic.
The mass/ sending ceremony was very meaningful. Family members, friends and the congregation joined us in the celebration. We, the missionaries, selected the readings, psalm and hymns for the mass and participated in every way possible. We have such a talented group! Each one has such a multitude of gifts they are taking with them into mission.

The mass for 8/21 sending ceremony:

Opening hymn: "Send Down the Fire" by Marty Haugen
First Reading: 1 Cor 12 14-28
Responsorial: Psalm 27 "The Lord is my Light"
Gospel: John 15: 9-17
Presentation of the Gifts: "You are Mine" by David Haas
Communion Hymn: "I am the Bread of Life/ Yo Soy el Pan de Vida"
by Susanne Toolan, SM
Recessional: "Companions on a Journey" by Carey Landry

I am grateful for all the preparation we received in the class room and everyone's enthusiasm. I treasure the time I spent getting to know the sisters and the '09 missionaries (Paula, Jenn, Melissa, Lisa, Andrea, Mike & Linda). I hope to keep in touch with them on a regular basis through skype and emails and wish them all the best!

A reflection we used in class attributed to Pedro Arrupe, S.J:

"Nothing is more practical than finding God - that is, than falling in love in a quite absolute final way.

What you are in love with, what seizes your imagination, will affect everything.

It will decide what will get you out of bed in the morning, what you do with your evenings, how you spend your weekends, what you read, who you know, what breaks your heart and what amazes you with joy and gratitude. Fall in love, stay in love, and it will decide everything."