Director’s Letter

Kenneth Gustin Director of Mission Advancement and Communications

This issue of Response is based on a beautiful song by Carey Landry titled “Companions on the Journey”. Its lyrics reflect on the reality that we are all connected and rely on one another both directly and indirectly as we travel the paths of our lives together (see our back cover).

As a lay person, one of the many things I marvel at is how the sisters do what they do. Organizations I have worked for previously fund projects based on budgeted projections of costs, with a focus on ROI (Return on Investment), then deploy a wellstaffed team fully equipped with the required supplies, technology, funding, transportation, housing, etc. The sisters, on the other hand, see a need, recognize they can help in some way, get the blessing of the leadership team and off they go.

Reminiscent of the disciples, sent out without money bag or a second pair of sandals, they often travel light and usually in small groups (two or three), with little to sustain them. They trust that God will provide, often by showing them the way and providing the means to accomplish their mission along the way. And God does, every time. God can show up in the form of a kind stranger, an old friend, and often YOU, our donors. We are placed in each other’s path for a reason, with each offering something unique to the task at hand. The stories abound!

You may not be aware of where your donations go, but I hope it is comforting to know that they are used in a wide variety of ways to sustain and support the sisters’ ministries. Today, these ministries are not the big splashy undertakings of major non-profits. We’re not curing cancer or ending world hunger. But we are helping individuals in ways which may seem materially small, but can have a major long-term impact on a life, a family or a community.

Teaching faith formation classes can shine a light to guide the path of those who are seeking God. Giving a ride to the doctor to an elderly neighbor helps them live independently a while longer. Caring for elderly sisters in a nursing home helps them feel the tender love of God in their waning days. Sharing their life experiences on a podcast episode can provide new insights or ideas. Gentle words of encouragement shared with a young person struggling with a heavy burden can be life-changing. Helping a young mother create a safe and loving home for her children in a remote corner of the world can yield the most amazing fruit for generations to come which spread across the globe.

You have been our companions on this journey, and we continue to strive to be yours. We are a gift to each other, just as God intended.

Be Good!