Everything is a Gift

Sr. Sheila Mae Estremos, SJBP

"The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want. Even though I walk through

the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod

and your staff comfort me". (Psalm 23:1,4)

I thank God for all that has been in my journey. It was full of challenges and blessings. Truly, the Lord is my good shepherd for he is always ready to give his grace and mercy to his beloved and to those who called him. Indeed, everything is a gift from Him. *PS: May 15, 2014 - Entrance to Aspirancy May 15, 2018 - First Profession Place of Birth: Digos City, Davao del Sur Diocese: Diocese of Digos

What has been part of your life?

My family, friends, relatives, my students, classmates, and others have become part of my life. And of course, the Lord is always and forever be a part of my life. Challenges are always there but because of God's grace, I was able to face it.

My family's religious background.

When I was young, both of my parents were active in the church. My mother is a member of the choir group in our chapel, my father is always assisting in some religious activities and my brother is an altar server. And I was one of the active lectors in our chapel. I also served as a chapel catechist and a choir member.

Why did I decide to pursue a religious life?

I decided to pursue a religious life because of the emptiness that I have felt deep within me. There is a deep longing for happiness that the world and my career cannot give or offer. I am happy with my work and the people around me but there is something that I cannot explain. That is why I decided to enter religious life.

How have my religious beliefs changed over time?

My religious beliefs have changed over time through different experiences, input/ talks, sharing, and encounters which are part of our formation. And, through the practices of piety that deepened my knowledge and relationship with God. 5. What is religious life for me? For me, religious life is a commitment to love. It is an offering of oneself to the one who loved us so much. It is like giving up everything that we have for the one we love.

What do I enjoy about being religious?

As a religious, I enjoy being with my fellow sisters. Sharing what we have, accepting each other’s mistakes/ imperfections, forgiving, and loving each other in spite and despite our limitations.

What challenges do I face in religious life?

In religious life, there are many different challenges that I have faced like the challenge of living in a community with different attitudes and behaviors; the challenge of collaborating with the pastors of the Church; the challenge of working hand in hand with the lay faithful....

My advice for those who are interested...

Listen to what the Lord is telling you. But how can you listen? Always spend time listening and reading the sacred scriptures. Pray always, and never get tired of asking the Lord for His will. Ask the Most Holy Trinity to give you the grace to listen and to open your mind and heart to the Word. Always ask the blessed Mother for her intercession.