October 4, 2017
St. John’s University’s Campus Ministry sponsored its third annual Brothers’/Sisters’ Night at the 5:30 p.m. Sunday Student Mass on September 17 in St. Thomas More Church. This event gives students the opportunity to meet and pray with Sisters and Brothers who serve the local Church.
A total of 51 Brothers and Sisters attended. They represented 14 congregations, including the Marist Brothers, Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn, Brothers of the Sacred Heart, De LaSalle Christian Brothers, Marianist Brothers, Capuchin Brothers, Daughters of Charity, Daughters of St. Paul, Daughters of Wisdom, Little Sisters of the Poor, Sisters of Life, Dominican Sisters of Amityville, Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, Precious Blood Sisters, and Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary.
Bethany Madonna, Sister of Life, shared her vocation story with students after Communion. She reflected on understanding discernment as a prayerful exploration leading to a better understanding of her call to follow Christ as poor, chaste, and obedient. Following Mass, the religious and students enjoyed a pizza party.
Comments made by the students about the experience included: “It was great to see the ease in which the Sisters and Brothers interacted with us”; “They are so genuine and happy with their lives”; “Speaking with these Religious on a personal level helped me understand their life better”; and “Conversing with a Brother was helpful in my clarifying the Brothers’ vocation for myself.” The event was coordinated by Marist Brother Mike Sheerin, F.M.S., Campus Minister for Faith Formation and Leadership.