By: Sarah Harbaugh
Do you ever get those flashbulb memories where you can close your eyes and remember all the details from a certain event? When I think of when I first voiced my desire to pursue religious life, I can see where I was and who surrounded me. It was on a TEC retreat and it was during a panel discussion on vocations. I was just a senior in high school and didn’t really pursue it much at that point in my life. I allowed myself to focus on finishing high school and going to college. I did lose my way during this time, but TEC was my anchor, my community of friends that were always there waiting for me. The friendships I have through TEC are ones that are grounded in Christ. These are the type of friendships that bring me joy because that is the kind of person I want to be.
I was promoting TEC at an event when the idea of discerning religious life again was brought to my attention. I initially said “no, thanks” and continued on with my life. That lasted a whole 3 months. When I made the decision to discern religious life, I found support through my TEC family. They encouraged and supported me when I was most vulnerable. Since entering religious life, I find that the support is mutual. My community, the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, support my involvement with TEC and my TEC family continues to shower me with their prayers and support as I venture through initial formation. I want to say that I wouldn’t be where I am today if not for TEC, but I also know that God works in mysterious ways. TEC has been and will be part of the foundation of who I am. TEC has helped to shape my spirituality and the encounter I had with Christ on my first TEC retreat greatly contributed to my charism as an Adorer of the Blood of Christ.
