Vocation Story
I feel strongly called to live a life of service, walking with an open listening heart, sharing gratitude, and of course humor and joy are fruits of this grateful listening. I grew up in rural New Zealand, and have had many international adventures. I have worked as a snowboard instructor among other things and have many years of experience in working in digital communication and illustration. I operated a successful graphic design business for many years. I am a lover of community, nature, running, bush walking, yoga, basketball, seeking adventures, finding God in all and taking leaps of faith.
On 13th January 2018, I professed vows and became a Sister of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart. This journey of consecrated life is indeed a counter cultural choice. Sure, I have had an abundance of all the normal things that society said should make me happy and peaceful. But, a few years back now our creator God had other plans. My life journey has been far from perfect. Tragedy strikes in many forms; the earthquakes in Christchurch in 2011 really did rock my world and when paired with other personal events my perspective on life certainly changed.
My passion is to serve God, to listen with gratitude, to walk In joyful solidarity - this is at the core of my heart.
The Aboriginal culture has a word 'Dadirri' which speaks of a deep listening that I feel is central to my life and relationship with God. Dadirri means inner, deep listening and quiet, still awareness. It is a 'tuning in' experience: Dadirri recognises the inner spirit that calls us to reflection and contemplation of the wonders of all God's creation. Continuing to let go of my ego and listening to my heart gifts me a sense of surrender, of happiness, a calm peaceful stillness, a stillness that money can not buy. My life and faith too is a continual daily listening to God in gratitude and continual surrender.
Artwork is something I have created since childhood to spread joy and love, it is a form/way that I can serve God and connect with community. The thing I love most about creativity and artwork is not the solitary moments, but the moments when I get to work with others to create, when I get to see reactions or hear stories about what it has meant. Our gifts are not ours to keep alone, they are meant to be shared - God's melody is sweetest when we play all our 'instruments' together. I am hoping you can join me in solidarity as I live life as a Sister of St Jospeh of the Sacred Heart. Every one is welcome here: All true forms of faith in God come back to one thing... LOVE of neighbour. Everyone is included no matter your sexuality, race, age, history. Everyone.
I deeply appreciate your support and thank you for traveling with me today.
~ Jane
Note: Any views here are my own. I do not speak on behalf of my congregation.
On 13th January 2018, I professed vows and became a Sister of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart. This journey of consecrated life is indeed a counter cultural choice. Sure, I have had an abundance of all the normal things that society said should make me happy and peaceful. But, a few years back now our creator God had other plans. My life journey has been far from perfect. Tragedy strikes in many forms; the earthquakes in Christchurch in 2011 really did rock my world and when paired with other personal events my perspective on life certainly changed.
My passion is to serve God, to listen with gratitude, to walk In joyful solidarity - this is at the core of my heart.
The Aboriginal culture has a word 'Dadirri' which speaks of a deep listening that I feel is central to my life and relationship with God. Dadirri means inner, deep listening and quiet, still awareness. It is a 'tuning in' experience: Dadirri recognises the inner spirit that calls us to reflection and contemplation of the wonders of all God's creation. Continuing to let go of my ego and listening to my heart gifts me a sense of surrender, of happiness, a calm peaceful stillness, a stillness that money can not buy. My life and faith too is a continual daily listening to God in gratitude and continual surrender.
Artwork is something I have created since childhood to spread joy and love, it is a form/way that I can serve God and connect with community. The thing I love most about creativity and artwork is not the solitary moments, but the moments when I get to work with others to create, when I get to see reactions or hear stories about what it has meant. Our gifts are not ours to keep alone, they are meant to be shared - God's melody is sweetest when we play all our 'instruments' together. I am hoping you can join me in solidarity as I live life as a Sister of St Jospeh of the Sacred Heart. Every one is welcome here: All true forms of faith in God come back to one thing... LOVE of neighbour. Everyone is included no matter your sexuality, race, age, history. Everyone.
I deeply appreciate your support and thank you for traveling with me today.
~ Jane
Note: Any views here are my own. I do not speak on behalf of my congregation.
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Relevant reflections from my Blog:
6 Month reflection > We All Bleed Red The Sisters of St Joseph at 150years > Who + What @ 150 It's not about me, but you > Vaya Con Dios The 'Yes' to first profession > Surrender, Home, Joy First Year of Vowed Life > 2018: Listening, Doors, Merry-go-rounds A day in the life > Sounds of Pastoral Ministry The Sisters of St Joseph: > When we Truly Listen || > What are you so afraid of? > Firsts (First Profession) || Technology & Teenagers |
Learn more about my story by listening to a 2017
abc Radio Melbourne interview Tui Motu: Listening to the Depths The Daily Telegraph: Why young people are lining up to... The Wireless: Taking a leap of faith into religious life + see video below |