Sister Vicki Jean Chambers, SSND

• Professed in 1990
• Current Ministry: Director of Religious Education at St. Bernadette Parish, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

God is good all the time, and all the time God is good.

- Well-known phrase spoken in the African-American Community

I can truly attest to the above statement for I have seen its power shine throughout my life. I am blessed not only by God's gift but also being part of the realm of creation as well. I was introduced to the idea of becoming a religious sister at a tender age.

I was born in a Franciscan hospital in Milwaukee on a significant red-letter day in SSND history and governance - October 8, 1956. I believe that these happenings set the foundation for my discernment to sisterhood.

My Catholic upbringing with my three brothers and two sisters (I am the oldest) helped me to view our Church in a special way. One of the most important events that shaped my life was the appearance of Vatican II Council. Although I was young when this occurred, I do remember its impact within our institution and outside its doors. I knew change was bursting in our midst.

Another area of prophetic change was the Civil Rights Movement. Here, I found the search of breaking open the scriptures and seeking humane measures beamed through the leadership of many figures including Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Medgar Evers, Fannie Lou Hammer and Joan Baez. They demonstrated to me the strengths of bravery and courage even in the storms of controversy. They revealed to me that all must live out their potential and call in life. I took heed to these messages as well as those from home, and forged out my dream in life as a School Sister of Notre Dame.

It was not a difficult task to locate members of SSND, for they were nearby as my elementary and high school teachers. During that time, I was struck by their dedication of service to God and others. I was moved by their spiritual presence and warm invitation to aspiring women to follow Jesus' request to work in His vineyard. In 1985, I was received as a live-in affiliate - the first in the province. The years that followed quenched my thirst to know Jesus deeply and understand my new religious family. I will always remember those formative years and how that time helped me to become the person I am today.

And although I am deeply grateful to God in recognizing my desire to serve Him in this way, I am also indebted to others who helped me at this special time, especially my family and close friends.

As I reflect on my faith journey with the Lord, I am amazed at how far I have come because of His love and mercy. I have found out first-hand the power of Jesus and His wish for all to share in fellowship at the table - regardless of cultural and personal background to make a difference in the world. I am glad to be part of this scene and working with others who feel the same.

Finally, I want to invite and encourage you to listen to God's voice in your life, particularly in the area of Church vocations. You have much to give to all for the betterment of the kingdom. Remember that God's goodness is with us always!! Just believe and live in His Name.