God's Loving Plan

Sr. Melissa Mancita, FSP

I am from Camarines Sur (Philippines). I entered the Daughters of Saint Paul in August 1998 at the age of 21, made my first profession in June 2003 and Final vows in June 2009. It is indeed the vocation of every Christian to find joy in bringing joy to others.

To learn and follow the values that Jesus lived and died for as a Religious is as challenging and fulfilling as any other state of life as it takes a lot of personal responsibility, self-discipline, and perseverance. When I finally found the root of my vocation as a beloved child of God, I have come to terms also with the purpose and meaning of my life which is discovering my giftedness and sharing it with others through services and meaningful relationships. Witnessing the Gospel in our specific Pauline Charism and serving one another in a religious community is a growth-promoting journey with a teacher who is never outrun in faithfulness, generosity, and mercy.

What has been part of your life?

A dynamic and meaningful relationship with God, others, and myself. Being alive is being loved and loving freely.

My family’s religious background

I was born into a Catholic family, went to catholic schools, and was an active parish youth member.

Why I decided to pursue a religious life.

It was a choice to figure out where the Lord is truly calling me to grow and serve.

How my religious beliefs have changed over time towards my vocation.

I constantly believed that God wanted me to be happy and that he has a plan for me. I am free to make my own choices and so, I decided to follow where the Lord is leading me.

What is religious life for me?

A life with other consecrated women called to love one another in Christ while serving the Church in a specific charism.

What do I enjoy about being religious?

The simple lifestyle, growing family, enriching community life, finding joy in service, and a lifetime growth-promoting formation.

What challenges do I face in religious life?

Keeping up the faith that God will put things right in his time, maintaining a Christ-like listening heart, and the courage and humility needed when confronted by my weaknesses.

My advice for those who are interested (Conclusion)

The capacity to discern will grow when a person is in a growing relationship with the Lord, so it is vital to be honest with oneself and with God because grace works in our openness and humility to become the happy person the Lord wanted us to be. Answering a call means retracing our path of being beloved of God and of being gifted. When a vocation is deeply rooted in God’s love, a life of service will bring us joy and authentic freedom.