Called by Name
Sr Sesilia Ioane csn

“I have called you by name, you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:16)

Called by name has a distinctive meaning for the baptised people whom God calls to spread His good news to the world by following a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. During Jesus’ public ministry, He went up the mountain and called those whom He wished by name, and they came to Him. On His way, He named the Twelve Apostles as His companions to go and preach the good news to the poor… (Mk3:13-15) Without hesitation, they left everything and followed Jesus.

The Lord is continually calling each of us by name. Are you willing to give up everything and follow Jesus, as the Apostles did?

A vocation is a deep desire that comes from God. A call to religious life moves a person to make decisions that will change the direction of his or her life. It is a time that may cause conflict and confusion, whereby the mind is pulling in one direction and the heart pulling in another. Yet, in the midst of it all, there is an experience of peace and contentment within.

When I first uttered the words, “I would like to become a nun,” I couldn’t believe that I said it. I had always thought that I would marry and have children. But Mr Right didn’t appear on the scene. However, Mr Perfect came and took me by the hand and said: “Be my spouse and follow me!” 

After graduating from high school, I spent two years overseas, during which time I was privileged to have the opportunity to live and work with the Sisters of Nazareth. I found myself becoming more sensitive to the needs of others and going into the Church to pray after work – something I had never done before. I felt more alive within myself, which made me feel more confident and peaceful. I could see that I was being led into a life of sacrifice and dedication, and although that feeling was rather daunting, I was excited with the new challenge. How could that be boring?

Entering into a religious vocation brings a definite change to one’s life. It has brought new meaning to mine. I thank God for the Sisters of Nazareth who have helped and supported me and for the experiences that they have shared with me as a member of the Congregation and a witness of the Church. I pray that other young people may also experience that they are truly called by name and respond to God’s call generously.