Post #2: Chicago Marathon 2013: with eyes on the goal

Dear reader,

I mentioned that I am training for a marathon with some other folks, so I wanted to share the details in brief.

This fall, I will be starting my career with the Franciscans, entering as a postulant (a.k.a. first year, noob, freshnman, new kid on the block, etc).

In May 2012 I graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with degrees in Civil Engineering and French. I am deeply grateful for my education, for the experiences I had throughout my college years, and most importantly, the friendships forged.

However, no great thing comes without cost, in my case about $30,000 worth of it. Since the Franciscans aren't salaried, I am relying on the generosity of others to pay the balance.

Thankfully, I've already had a lot of help. My alma mater's St John Catholic Newman Center took up a collection and put a generous dent in my debt.

Still.... $15,000 is a long way to go for a girl soon quitting her job to be a full-time 'mish' a.k.a. missionary.

So, I am running the Chicago Marathon, by God's grace, to demonstrate my commitment to this life choice and to encourage folks to jump on the bandwagon to help pay off my debt!

So please pray for me, and for my community!
Money details, before I return to blogging:
All checks go to "Franciscans of the Eucharist" and are tax-deductible if requested.
Check out the website for more info: http://www.franciscansoftheeucharist.com/contact-us/
I also have a paypal, if you would like to transfer funds online.  Contact me by phone or send an email through the website listed online.
If you would like to chat with me in person before investing, please call !  I would be happy to talk with you, field your questions, pray for your intentions, etc!

Smiles and many thanks,
Jess

Post #1: Dear Reader

Dear Reader,

WELCOME!

The following posts are to help you get acquainted with me and the lovely and absolutely awesome Franciscans that I live with and am soon joining on the road to Sisterhood! A big part of my transition period from the working world to the Franciscan-working world has been my training: both spiritually, and the getting-in-shape type. Me, one of the Sisters, and a whole crew of dedicated folks are running the Chicago Marathon 2013!

Thank you for your curiosity for who I am, and for why on earth I am choosing to become a Sister with the Franciscans of the Eucharist.

In the words of St Luke, I am writing to you, dear reader, that you might know the account of my journey and seek therin the reasons for it.

Kind regards,
Jess