Why I love Bellarmine
Lauren Linsner - IWU 2006
Picture of Hannah Martin

Ite, missa est or as we say in English, ―The Mass is ended, go in peace to love and serve the Lord.‖ These are the words we hear at the closing of each and every celebration of the Mass.

To me, these words do not signify an ending, but a beginning. The words at the end of the Mass tell us that we are sent forth and signify the beginning of our mission.

Likewise, my departure from Bloom-ington/Normal and the Saint Robert Bellarmine Catholic Newman Center was not an ending, but truly a beginning. It was my experience as a college student at the SRBCNC that pre-pared me for this sending forth into the ―real world after graduation.

Growing up, I was blessed with a lov-ing Catholic family and received an excellent education in Catholic schools, yet it was my experience at the SRBCNC during my college yearsthat led me to fall in love with our Lord and to desire to continue to grow in my knowledge and practice of the faith.

At SRBCNC, I found an outstanding community who encouraged me and challenged me to live a Christ-centered life. With the support of the SRBCNC staff and my fellow students, I gained the courage necessary to live this new life.

Since moving back home to the sub-urbs of Chicago (go White Sox! That one was for you, Father Dittmer ) and returning to ―normal parish life, I have become a Minister of Care.

Once a month, I visit the sick in a local hospital to pray with them and to bring them the Holy Eucharist. The time I spend with those to whom I minister is truly sacred and I feel a great honor and responsibility in bringing our Lord to those who are unable to attend Mass.

I am forever grateful for my experience at the SRBCNC as it has provided me with the formation and courage to answer the call to this particular ministry.

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