Jesus said to them again, 

"Peace be with you.

As the Father has sent me, so I send you."

John 20: 21

Guess what?! I returned from the conference to find a congratulatory e-mail... I have been approved to profess first vows! I will receive the official "hard copy" when I return to San Antonio in a little less than 2 weeks to begin preparation for profession.

So, how does that feel? I was reflecting on this very question yesterday... It's overwhelming in a way. The approval makes everything more "real" in a way that's difficult to explain. It's exciting... it's awe-inspiring... This profession of vows, although temporary, is such an important step - an affirmation of a call received, a "yes" in faith, a commitment to the Marianist Sisters... 

Moving forward in faith with no knowledge of what might be ahead isn't always easy (especially for me!). Yesterday's Gospel states, though, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." What a perfect reading! It was somewhat like another conformation of the next step. "Yes, Nicole, be at peace. I'm the one sending you." 

I have to get going now as the day will most likely be fairly full. However, I wanted to post the good news before too much time had passed...

Much Easter peace & joy to those who read this,

Sr. N