In this Vocations Awareness Week we are sharing stories from people who have responded to God’s call in different ways and are discerning where He may be leading them.
Today we hear from Lise, a postulant with The Spiritual Family The Work, who previously studied Mechanical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University.
Lise first approached Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO, Religious Vocations Director for the Archdiocese, around the time of the Covid pandemic after meeting at the Young Adults Group at St Mary’s Cathedral in Edinburgh.
Now living with The Spiritual Family The Work in Littlemore, Oxford, Lise spoke to us about adjusting to community life, discovering the meaning of her vocation and why leaving behind a career in engineering has brought her a sense of peace.
What is ‘postulancy’, and what do you learn in this time?
Postulancy is a time to discover and getting used to a new way of life. I had to adapt to the rhythm of communal prayer, and it took me several months to fully engage with morning prayer.
During this time, I also learnt more about the charism of our Spiritual Family The Work, especially how to live it concretely in each small action that we do in our daily life.
It’s a time to allow God to reshape our lives and get to know the sisters and community life better.
What has been the highlight so far?
My highlight so far has been discovering how small acts of kindness can touch people’s hearts.
Many parishioners are happy to know that the sisters live in their parish and pray for them. A smile in the street or taking the time to talk after Mass can make a big difference. Through living our vocation, we pass on God’s love more than we realise!
What advice would you like to give to other young people considering a religious vocation?
Because I have a degree, people often criticise me for wasting my life by giving up a career as an engineer.
However, since following my vocation, I have found peace in my heart and know that I am where God wants me to be. It’s not always easy, but I trust that God wants me to be happy and that He will put my degree to good use.
People may find it difficult to understand the call to a consecrated life; however, we want to follow God’s plan for our lives.
My advice is: Why not take some time to reflect on God’s will for your life? The answer may not be easy to hear, and it may come as a complete surprise.
Nevertheless, He promises to be with us on this journey and never to leave us alone!
For young women considering whether God may be calling them to religious life, the Archdiocese is hosting an Explore Retreat Day on Saturday 14 November, from 10:00am–7:00pm at 9 Upper Gray Street, Edinburgh. The day includes Holy Mass, reflection, prayer, a Holy Hour and time to socialise. To register, email Sr Mirjam Hugens FSO at religiousvocations@staned.org.uk.
