Sr. Mavis Champagne, OLS
I met the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows in 1982, the summer after I graduated from high school. I was working at a camp when the bishop suggested inviting girls from a local school for children with developmental disabilities. The sisters accompanied them, and it turned out to be a joyful and memorable experience for everyone involved. At the end of the camping session, the sisters invited us, who worked at the camp, to visit them at the school and convent. We were happy to go and were all quite impressed with the school. I was immediately struck by the fact that there were 150 children with special needs whose parents could not care for them. These sisters had left their families and country to love and serve these kids, leaving a lasting impression on me.
After meeting the sisters, I found them friendly and impressive in their work, but I had no desire to join them. Over the next couple of years, I kept in touch with the sisters. During this time, something within me shifted. I began to hunger for a deeper relationship with God, which led to a growing prayer life. My priorities changed, with former concerns becoming less important and new ones taking their place.
Getting to know the sisters, praying with them, and experiencing their community life made me wonder if this was the life God had prepared for me. I felt blessed and wanted to give back by serving His people, even though the idea initially scared me. I had always planned to attend college, major in art, get married, and settle down, so I questioned how God could call someone like me to this life.
After a period of discernment and prayer, I decided to give it a try. This decision filled me with peace. With the love and support of my family and friends, I moved in with the sisters and began my formation. I entered the novitiate in 1985 and made my profession of vows in 1987. Since then, I have been challenged and blessed in ways that have helped me grow beyond my expectations. Being a member of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows has revealed gifts within me and provided opportunities to love and serve God's people. I am deeply grateful for the love and support of my sisters and family, the people I have ministered to, and to God, who is always patient and faithful.
