Sister Maria Eleanor Caisido, C.V.I.

How long have you been involved in vocation ministry?

Three and a half years.

Are you part of team?

Yes, there are two of us. I am full time, and the associate vocation director, Sister Mary Zachary Bertrand, C.V.I., is part time. I also work in close collaboration with other vocation ministers through the archdiocesan vocations office of Galveston-Houston, Texas.

Has being a member of NRVC been helpful to you?

Yes! The workshops were very helpful, especially Orientation and Behavioral Assessment. The staff members are very approachable and prompt in responding to my requests and questions, and HORIZON keeps me on top of what’s going on in the world of vocation ministry and in religious life itself. I really feel very supported in my ministry through NRVC.

Plus, I am thankful to have been part of the “Keys to the Future” and the “Women Religious Moving Forward in Hope” projects. To be a member of NRVC is a wonderful investment. Our whole congregation, not just me, has received many benefits over the years.

What have been your best vocation projects?

Within the congregation we have collaborated with leadership to establish a four-year strategic plan in vocation ministry. We’ve promoted a culture of vocations among our members through Wisdom Gatherings twice a year. In addition it has helped us to be transparent with members through regular updates (at least once a month). There has been “buy-in” from most members to actively participate in vocation ministry, not just to support it in prayer.

Among young adults we try to build relationship by being present and available where they are. For instance we are present at Newman Centers, especially the Busy Students Retreat, and at young adult events such as Theology on Tap, Café Catholica, and Bayou Awakening. We also connect through social media.

Do you have any words of wisdom to those who are new to this ministry?

My guiding principle since I started this ministry is a paraphrase of 1 Corinthians 3:6. “I planted, Apollos watered, but God caused the growth . . . she who plants and she who waters are one . . . We are God's co-workers.”

These words from Saint Paul help me put things into perspective in my ministry. God is the one in charge. My role is to collaborate with others to plant or water the seed of vocation in every person with whom I journey. At the end of a good or challenging day, God blesses my efforts even when the growth or fruits take a while to emerge. Thus, be rooted in prayer. A second commandment in vocation ministry might be, “Take very good care of yourself.”

What do you find most rewarding?

The relationships I have established, especially among young adults. I treasure the opportunity to mentor young people. I also value relationships with other women and men in this ministry, especially those at our archdiocesan vocations office whose staff is very supportive and collaborative.

Contact Sister Maria Eleanor at CVIVOCATIONS@gmail.com.