Career Mapping

I began my work in ministry as a research assistant in a medical school.

This is what happens when I take things into my own hands. My parents were happy. I was using my degree. I was happy, also, because I was volunteering at a parish, trying to nurture the beginnings of a youth ministry. One experience was life giving. The other involved lab rats.

I put my résumé on file with the archdiocesan personnel office, and went back to the lab. I decided to stay in the Chicago area, where I had grown up, and continue as a volunteer until the right job presented itself.

A call from Shawnee, Kansas, had me traveling there for the interview experience. When I returned to Chicago, it was to pack for the move. I decided that this time, I would put things into more competent hands. The Holy Spirit was definitely involved in this career change.

In the eighteen years since then, my ministries have shifted, changed, grown and expanded. There have been moments of challenge, discovery and grace. I have served in a parish setting, been a member of a high school faculty, and worked in a diocesan office. These experiences have all offered opportunities and experiences that have been blessings in my life.

I cannot say I began this work with a career map. There was a quiet voice, offering direction that, for a long time I chose to ignore. Eventually, I listened, picked up a map and embarked on this amazing journey. Along the way I have questioned the wisdom of the trip, shifted routes and run into some dead ends.

Companions along the way have helped and advised, mentored and taught, challenged and empowered me. Over time these people have helped me see this work as a career, a vocation and a gift.

NACYML brings us together as traveling companions. We need to find each other, come together to work, share, compare, encourage and mentor. We can help each other search for direction, navigate rough terrain, and find the way along a career path that is constantly changing.

We can, as members of NACYML help others map their own journeys, journeys always directed by God’s call and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and communities.