Making God’s Love Visible

By Sister Janet Deaett, SNDdeN

Sister Janet Deaett, SNDdeN

Each week, I volunteer at a soup kitchen in Enfield, Connecticut. I assist with meal prep alongside other volunteers and am always aware that people who are hungry will have nourishing food because of our ministry. St. Julie said, “Do everything for the love of God who has done everything for love of you.” This love is visible in what we do and how we serve.

Continuing to make known God’s goodness at the food bank requires careful food preparation. Local stores mostly donate the groceries, and the items need to be examined and washed before use. We make a large green salad and fruit salad to go with the evening supper. Sometimes we place single-portion dessert slices on small plates, make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or bag cookies for takeout. Not only is this a joyful task because it feeds those experiencing poverty, but it’s also joyful to work with others who freely give with a loving spirit. We put God’s goodness into every bite!

The call to religious life is a grace and blessing. To be irresistibly drawn into the heart of our good God as a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur is an experience like no other. When there are challenges, God is there. When there are joys, God is there. When there is sadness, God is there, and God is always Good!  I am glad I took the quiet time to listen to God’s movement in my heart and to ponder what God was asking of me. I will never regret saying “Yes!”