My first experience of Guatemala was in 2005 when I chaperoned a mission trip to San Lucas Tolimán , Guatemala . I accompanied a group from Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, that went to serve the mission at San Lucas that is sponsored by the Diocese of New Ulm. It was an awesome and life–changing experience!
Sister Lisa overlooking San Lucas (after climbing the mountain)
I can credit, in part, that first trip to Guatemala for giving me the courage and motivation to answer my vocational call. Recognizing God’s providence and seeing the lived faith and dedication in the lives of the Guatemalan people opened my heart and enabled me to break down bearers that let God take his rightful place in my life. Upon returning from that trip in 2004 I began, in earnest, my journey to religious life.
Beautilful Lake Atitlán at San Lucas
In 2008 I was blessed once more with the opportunity to travel to San Lucas as part of a mission group. Again, my time in Guatemala was influential on my vocation, as this time, I went to Guatemala as a Benedictine Postulant. The trip was between my first and second year at St. Scholastica Monastery. The days I spent living, working and praying in San Lucas helped me to focus my heart and soul in preparation for becoming a Novice and moving deeper into Benedictine Life. My Guatemalan connection was renewed this past week when we at St. Scholastica had the great privilege to welcome Msgr. Gregory Schaffer, pastor at the Mission of San Lucas Tolimán, and his friend from the mission, Encarnación “Chona” Ajcot. I was happy to see them and recount stories of my time in Guatemala. Msgr. Schaffer and “Chona” upon their visit to the Monastery
Msgr Schaffer and Chona Ajcot during their visit to the Monastery
God willing, I will someday be graced to Guatemala again!
Sister Lisa Maurer was born and raised in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, before entering the Monastery, Sister Lisa taught and coached in Catholic Schools within the New Ulm Diocese. Sister Lisa made her first Monastic Profession in August 2009. She currently ministers at the parishes of St. Lawrence and St. Joseph in Duluth. See all of Sister Lisa’s posts.