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Kathleen Schiro
kmarys@hotmail.com |
 I have always felt the need for spirituality in my life, even as a child. As time went on, it just grew stronger. Then in 1993, I experienced a real grace when as Administrator of the Bloomfield Counseling Center, the Executive Director and I interviewed and accepted our newest intern, Sr. Lisa Gambacorto. I was drawn immediately to her vitality, her spirit, and her professionalism. I had known Sisters of different Communities before, but never a Sister of Mercy. I knew nothing about their mission or their charism, but now knew I wanted to learn more. I told Sr. Lisa about my desire to become more involved with her Community, and she urged me to look into becoming an Associate. When I attended Pre-Associate Orientations, I was filled with the strength and spirit of the Sisters as they shared their stories and taught us about Mercy. I will always remember the day of my Commissioning as I signed my Covenant and was overcome with emotion. My husband, Michael, and I have four children, and I can see how Mercy has made a difference in their lives, too. My commitment to Mercy has deepened and I am now the Director of Mercy Associates for the Regional Community of New Jersey. Recently I was elected to the Executive Committee of the Mercy Associate Directors' Council in the Institute of the Americas. I have fully integrated myself into the circle of Mercy and now travel the journey with so many wonderful Religious and laity who have dedicated themselves to the charism of Catherine McAuley, the foundress of this Community. Whatever decision I make in life, I feel that I have the strength and help of the Sisters with me and in me—whether I am working on justice issues, struggling with something in my personal life, or dealing with a challenge at work. The experience of Mercy has made me connect in a deeper sense with all people. At work, I have many opportunities to affect further change in patients by being gentle and merciful and allowing them to feel a genuine caring. I often feel the Holy Spirit guiding me to reach out in the hope of helping someone on his or her journey. Mercy Association has become a deep passion for me. It has consumed my whole being. My desire is to keep the charism of Catherine McAuley, along with her love of Jesus, as the basis for my life. In the beginning, I was being led onto an unknown, yet desired path. Little did I know how many gifts of enrichments, joys, and transformations I would find along the side of the road! What do we DO as Associates? The question should be, "Who do we become?" Kathy Schiro |