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Although she does not speak English fluently, language has never been a barrier for Vocationist Sister Lucia Spinelli, who speaks fluently with her heart. Sister Lucia, of Blessed Sacrament Parish, Martinsville, is marking her 60th anniversary in consecrated life and has much to reflect on during her journey thus far.
Born and raised in Faeto-Forgia, Italy, Sister Lucia was raised in a strict Italian lifestyle ruled by her father. When she realized she was interested in pursuing a life serving God, she sought out the help of the spiritual director at her parish home parish in Italy. He guided her to meet the Vocationist Sisters because he knew them well. Since the Vocationist Sisters lived in her town, it was not long before she, too, knew them well.
While joining the Vocationist Sisters was an easy decision for Sister Lucia to make, it was not met with the support of her father, who had other plans for his daughter.
“At first my father opposed my decision. For fear of consequences, my whole family followed him. But later, he allowed me to join the Sisters and everything was well,” she said.
She went on to profess her perpetual vows in 1969, in Pianura, Naples, Italy, thankfully, with the full support of her family.
Although she did not attend school and gain formal training in order to become a Vocationist Sister, she points to her upbringing as providing a rock-solid foundation for this formation.
“I had no difficulties transitioning to this life because my parents raised me with discipline and work. I was already used to a similar lifestyle,” she said.
For most people, a move to another country where they do not speak the native language fluently would cause anxiety. So, when Sister Lucia moved from Italy to the United States having less than fluent English-speaking skills, she realized what she would be facing. But, while she needs help to communicate with anyone who does not speak Italian, she does not view this as a negative because she is happy to be in the United States.
During her 60 years in consecrated life, Sister Lucia says she has greatly enjoyed offering her daily prayers. Each day, she prays for vocations in the Church and for those who have asked for her intervention in praying for them.
“My prayers have helped many people in many different situations,” she said.
In addition, her ability to serve God’s people extends beyond prayer and into the kitchen — after all, she is Italian.
“I am happy to be able to help children eat better by preparing daily healthy and delicious meals. Parents are grateful for my homemade food,” stated Sister Lucia.
As a Vocationist, Sister Lucia hopes to continue guiding other women to follow in her path, just as she was guided to follow others before her.
“Do not be afraid because to follow Jesus into religious life is the best choice,” she said.
Stacey Daly
