Name of Missionary Sister: Sr. Diane Olmstead, MSC
Current ministry: Provincial Councillor (Leadership within the Province)
What attracted me to a life as a Missionary Sister: Even as a child I felt drawn to missionary life the idea of sharing God’s love with all people, i.e., being a Missionary of the Sacred Heart.
Experience that convinced me that religious life was the right path for me:
I can’t say it was one experience however, when I finally got off the fence and just said YES I felt a great joy and peace. In addition, I felt “at home” with the MSCs. I felt I belonged.
Favorite prayer or scriptural quote: House built on Stone vs. Sand (Mt. 7: 24-27) also Sower and the Seed (Mt. 13)
Favorite way to pray: Prayer with scripture and quietly walking
Blessings and challenges of community life: Blessings: Shared prayer in community and the witness of faith of each sister.
Challenges: Self-sacrifice that comes with sharing life and space and not always having my own way or desires.
What I love most about being an MSC: Having the opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself the opportunity to share my gifts and talents being a Missionary of God’s love wherever I am sent.
Best loved ministry: St. Teresa Parish as a pastoral associate
What I do for enjoyment hobbies and interests: Swimming, reading, movies
People might be surprised to know that I… get very excited at sporting events played sports in high school loved field hockey.
My advice for those who are in discernment: Visit communities ask yourself where you feel “at home” where you feel you will be a better person and become the best person you can be? Ask about how they live community and how they understand the living of the vows.
Favorite resources that I would recommend for those in discernment: Vocations Anonymous (by Cathryn Bryant ?) Having a good spiritual director.