Each January since 2002, a new group of eager ILEM candidates have gathered to begin their journey down the road of formation. This year eight women and two men met at the Chancery in Lawerenceville to hear Sister Rita Woehlcke SSJ speak about the nature of formation, to explore the results of their recent discovery of personality traits in light of the life of Jesus and the gospel stories, and to begin to form community with each other. When asked to share about what they will remember about their first day as a cohort, they mentioned "the need to notice the differences in all of us and the qualities in Jesus which are all very close to us" and "the realization that God has called (us) to become who (we) are meant to be." They said they left the day with "a good understanding of where we are, what to expect, and what is important."
Some quotes from individual 2012-start candidates:
Marge Halloran: Today was very helpful in setting the stage for what is to come. I am very excited about the process and today added to my comfort.
Tony Rosa: As we delved into the nature of Jesus and his humanity...I realized that I can be more Christlike if I want to be. I can't allow myself to think I can't be more like Him because He was so much like me.
Hope Blanch: The Beginning Experience was a warm way to welcome the group. I felt it was a great overview of what we can expect and look forward to, with the expectation of how much we will grow in the formation.
Nelida Agosto: (It is important) to be myself always and to see more often the human characteristics of Jesus - especially when bad times come. He is our Model.
Mary Esther Wyman: I feel more confident that what I am now beginning is indeed a calling from my Creator. Jesus will walk with me. I am not afraid anymore.
Gene Del Carmen summed it all up in two words: Truly enlightening!
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