In a moving testimony, Comboni Missionary Sister María Goretti shares her passion for bringing the Gospel to all people. Stationed in San Lorenzo, Ecuador, Sr. María finds joy in “proclaim[ing] Jesus and the Good News of him,” especially among Afro-descendants like herself.
As Sr. María writes, “being a Comboni Missionary, African and living among Afro-descendants, I feel very happy to be able to meet people with diverse Afro-descendancy who enrich me mutually.” Her service includes working with children, youth and women through catechesis, sacramental preparation and teaching about mission.
In her words, “Through children I have learnt what it means to be humble and a server.” The reciprocal gifts of teaching and learning shine through her ministry. As she says, “As I transmit the missionary aspect to these little ones they too transmit their missionary energy and love for the whole world.”
Beyond Ecuador, Sr. María uses social media to reach Catholic youth worldwide “who are not so confident of their faith.” With inspiring posts and outreach, she helps them know “many things about the Catholic faith” and embrace its beauty.
At the core of Sr. María’s vocation lies a heart for mission. She quotes her founder, St. Daniel Comboni: “If I had a thousand lives, I would give them all for the mission.” For Sr. María, “The mission has brought me a lot of joy and fulfillment because I feel happy doing it.” She invites all to consider, “Do you think you can be one of those thousand lives for the mission of Jesus?”
Through her contagious passion, Sr. María Goretti calls young and old to proclaim Christ through selfless service. May her witness continue to spread the light of the Gospel far and wide.