The Assumptionist Center in Brighton recently hosted its first “Conversations…” of the semester. The topic “Called to Witness As Who We are: A Conversation for Helpers, Lovers, and Evangelizers,” was addressed by Sam Keffler (a resident at the Center), Jennifer Verkamp and Gabriela Seufferheld who shared their perspectives on evangelization in the field of social work. All three of them are pursuing their Masters in Social Work at Boston College.

The over- riding inspiration was the quote from St. Catherine of Siena, “Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.”

In facilitating a very inter- active discussion, the community, residents and guests were first asked to address the ‘Who’ in this process of evangelizing by getting in touch with their own self- identity as persons in relationship with self, others and God. After a few minutes of reflection and sharing, the group moved on to the ‘Why’ and the motivation, the passion, the driving force of their vocation and/ or preparation for a career. What is it that gives us joy? What are our God-given gifts and talents? And lastly, what does the world need of us? In what way can we make a difference, no matter how small? It was most interesting to note that everyone in the room has already chosen a life of some kind of service to others or is preparing to do so in the future.

After some more time for reflection, several folks shared how an incident, experience or person impacted them in their discernment process and prompted them in choosing a direction or choice in their area of study/vocation/career. In each case stated, listening to one’s heart and mind to God’s  ‘call’ was critical and life-changing and came in a variety of ways: prayer, circumstances, experiences and in some cases, other people.

As always, the rich morning of presentation and discussion was followed by further conversation which piqued over a delicious brunch. The invitation was then extended to attend the next “Conversations…” which will focus on “Women and Evangelization” later this month. All were encouraged to bring a friend!