Peace of Christ be with you!  As I begin my sixth year at the Catholic Youth Apostolate – Office of Youth Ministry, I turn to the words of Christ who says, “It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you to go forth and bear fruit that will remain.”  The Lord called me to serve here in the Archdiocese of St. Louis in July 2003.  Now, September 2008, He calls again. He is sending me forth to be the Vocation Director for the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George [1].  My last day in the office is September 15th and I will move to Alton on September 20th.

There really is no easy way to tell you about this transfer.  I vowed obedience and this is part of the life the Lord has called me to live.  However, that doesn’t mean this change will be painless.  I have been blessed by so many incredible people here – YOU!  I have been inspired by young people and youth ministers!  I have witnessed countless generous, sacrificial hearts to bring Christ to others.  THANK YOU!  When one loves and receives love it is hard to say good-bye.

As I look back I wish I could have done more to serve you.  Thank you for your patience with me!  Thank you for serving young people.  Thank you for loving.  Thank you for persevering.  Thank you for responding to the Lord’s call to follow Him.

My prayer for you is that each of you (yes, if you’re reading this, it means YOU) take the time every day to encounter the Lord.  Schedule it in!  Spend time with the Father who loves you dearly.  Let His love penetrate your heart.  Let His love heal your heart.  Let His love change your heart.  Don’t just open your heart to His love, but receive it and believe in it!  Yes, He created you as He designed and loves you. Read Psalm 139. 

He has to be your foundation and source of strength in order to be His witness in a world that wants to (in the words of a recent retreat director) “silence the truth and snuff out the light”.  Do not be afraid to speak the truth and to be a light in the darkness.  Please, spend time with the Lord.  He waits for you to come to Him.  Just be with Him in His presence in the Eucharist.  It is here where I will meet you.  So, I will not say good-bye, instead…I’ll meet you in Him.  Please pray for me as I will for you.

United in the Heart of Christ,

Sister M. Consolata, FSGM