Through generosity, I work in an empty convent next door to a Catholic high school, in the Bronx. It is a big building and frankly, not in the best of neighborhoods, but I have always felt safe in there even when I have had cause not to.
Most days, I am in the building alone except when a volunteer is present, or the days when we have a retreat or training. The convent, of course, has a chapel, and I am very blessed to have Jesus present in the Blessed Sacrament.
During the month of August between business and pleasure, I was gone for three weeks, and so, before I left I had a priest consume Jesus, because I knew no one would be around to change the sanctuary light or spend any time with Him.
As the time approached to return to work, I contacted the priest to ask him to please bring Jesus back so that He would be there when I returned. I did not want to go back into the building without Him. Unfortunately, he was away on retreat and so for a few days I was in the convent alone and not feeling very comfortable. Thank goodness He is now back!
I am asked all the time how I can work there alone and not be nervous. My answer is, I am not alone. I work with Jesus beside me. The same Jesus, who healed me of my abortion, who blesses me with faith and the ability to do this work by His grace. Jesus my friend, my confidant, counselor and Savior.
It is with Him beside me each day that I minister to those post abortive. He knows the stories and heartbreaks of all who come to us. In prayer with Him and under the guidance of my director, I discern His will and pray daily for those struggling with the pain of a past abortion, invoking Him to bring more souls forward to experience His love and forgiveness.
I have learned not to rush Him, but to trust and allow Him to heal in His time, not mine, for only he knows the depths of each person wounds. I pray to Him daily to keep me out of the way wanting only the good and healing of those who come. I have learned to trust in His working for those He entrusts to us, and I have been blessed to see many reach His peace and healing. He hears me grumble, He cries and smiles with me. It is not always easy especially when He asks something of me I do not want to do, but by His grace we move forward. Many times I fail, but I know He will then meet me in the Sacrament of Reconciliation there to begin again.
No, I am truly not alone, for I work with the best co-worker anyone could possibly have Jesus Christ!
