God has not promised skies always blue,
Flower strewn pathways all our lives through,
God has not promised sun without rain,
Joy without sorrow, peace without pain.
But God has promised strength for the day,
rest for the labourer,
light on the way,
grace for the trial,
help from above,
unfailing sympathy,
undying love.
Wishing you a Blessed Day!
(from www.funstuff.com)
I grew up in a Roman Catholic Family. As a young child I loved going to church and singing in the children's choir. My love of singing brought me closer to God. It is said that singing is like praying twice. It was also a comfort for me. God was not talked about much in my family. Somehow I knew God was always going to be a part of my life, for the good and the bad.
As I grew older I became part of the jr. youth group at our parish, St. Martin de Porres. I also went from the children's choir to the youth choir. This choir, created a special children's mass. It was a wonderful experience. In our youth group John Vandenakker was the seminarian who helped us grow in our relationships with others and with God. John V., who is now Fr. John, helped me to see the humour in life and how to see things in a positive light. He helped me through some tough times in my life. He was the one who listened to me with compassion and understanding.
During my early teen years I started to fall away from the church. I was angry at my life. I was angry at God. When I was 17 a young lady from the church I grew up with asked me if I as interested in going on a retreat. I did and I am thank-ful to God I had the opportunity. I believe God thouched me that weekend. This retreat was called a 'Challenge Weekend''.
Over the next several years I came involved with this movement. I served on countless weekends, helping other's to see and experience God. I also served on the Exceutive Team for two years. It was through all this that I met another priest, Fr. Roger Vandenakker. And yes, it's Fr. John's brother. They are member's of a community of priests based in Ottawa, called the Companions of the Cross.
I joined a pariish in Ottawa, St. Maurice. I helped to start a youth choir there, along with 3 other people. I joined the sr. youth group and became a leader for several years. Then, I joined the parish council for 2 years. As you can see, I was quite involved at this parish. It was like my home.
Several years ago, things in my life started to get worse for me. I don't think my life will ever run smoothly. The main concern was my depression. I couldn't enjoy things anymore and I let go of everything at church. When I came back I was let down because I wasn't able to join the choir again. It still hurts sometimes. I would love to be part of a church choir.
My faith was and continues to be with me. It has many ups and downs. I need to realize how much God loves me. He really does, but sometimes it's difficult to experience it.
That;'s all for now. Take care and may God Bless You!
Sarah