When one begins to think of their own calling to Religious Life often there are many memories that surface. However, the one thread that is often heard in the telling is the influence or impact of a Religious Sister on their life. The call to religious life is just that, a call from within that in many cases or ways, is ignored or put on the back burner for various reasons and a later time. The influence of another in making our decisions in life can never be underestimated. As we journey in life we realize more than ever that things do not just happen but rather are part of God's Divine plan.
In looking back, I can think that my vocation was linked to a long distance call that I had placed to wish my cousin, a Carmelite Sister for the Aged and Infirm, a happy birthday. Long before cell phones, voicemail or beepers, the operator was unable to reach her after several attempts. To follow up I wrote to tell her I tried to reach her by phone without success. She wrote me back and suggested that I go and meet some of Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm. So typical of teenagers, I talked my friend into going with me to Saint Patrick Home in the Bronx to meet some of the Sisters who helped me contact my cousin. In some ways you can say the rest of the story is history. I went up to the Home and it was not long before I became a volunteer or more correctly called a "Carmelette."
My parents had much influence on the faith foundation of my sister, brother and myself. They made sure that we attended Mass, Church Retreats, go to Confession, receive instructions and the Sacraments. I attended Catholic Elementary School and Public High School. All through High School I continued to volunteer at the Home and it was getting obvious that this was taken on a life of its own for me. During the time that I was volunteering at the Home, some of the girls were preparing to enter the Community. Although my family was proud of their faith, they were not quite sure how they felt about giving their youngest daughter to the Church, not sure if they would ever see her again if she did enter! As I said, things happen for a reason. It was during my volunteer days that I learned how to run the switchboard which helped me to get a full time job. I later worked for the Telephone Company and I think everyone thought this was where I would stay. But then there was this inner nagging that was not going away.
After many years I had seen several of the Carmelettes enter the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm and other Religious Congregations. I had been asked by many, "So when are you going to enter?" I had to ask myself the same question. For many of my family and friends it was a surprise when I announced that I was going to enter the Convent of September 8, 1963, almost 48 years ago. It has been a wonderful journey filled with wonder and blessings. During these years, I have been blessed to serve the elderly in many different parts of the country, and had the wonderful experience of meeting and serving with dedicated people who have shared in our Ministry to the Aged and Infirm. My Community has provided me with so many opportunities, education, ability to attend programs, and to travel to the Holy Land, as part of a Renewal Program.
God has blessed me in so many ways and most especially with the gift of Vocation. As Carmelites we are always drawn to Mary and she is always the one who intercedes to her Son in our behalf.
Read The Sisters' Stories
Sister M. Kevin Patricia Lynch, O.Carm