A young adult woman shares with Sr. Réjeanne Beaulieu how she sees and lives out her vocation
Every human life, from the moment of conception until death, is sacred because the human person has been willed for its own sake in the image and likeness of the living and holy God.
Catechism of the Catholic Church article 2319
I was thinking that the above statement encompasses my whole life. I was first given life from God then was born because of the love of my parents and was raised catholic, in a church built on love. I experienced the love of my family including my grandparents, aunts and uncles, etc. My surrounding community has always influenced me.
I have learned from and have been touched by many different vulnerable cultures. I had the opportunity to serve and learn from people with developmental disabilities, from children through dancing and teaching, from the elderly in long-term care facilities and hospitals, from people with addictions and mental issues, from the poor in my community and in third world countries, through serving as a nurse in palliative care, and by volunteering with birthright.
Everyone who has taught me something valuable about life has been from the weak and vulnerable. They have taught me the value of a smile and that "power is made perfect through weakness".
I want to give in return by promoting the dignity of every human being from conception until natural death. I believe that life began with God and the life He gives us does not end. That's how I see and live my vocation.
Renée Schmitz
Vancouver, BC