My name is Sister Debbie Pike. On September 2, 2006, during the celebration of Eucharist at our Motherhouse Chapel, I made perpetual profession as a Sister of St. Martha. Taking final vows in the presence of many people who accompanied me on my journey to this day was truly an awesome experience. Family and friends travelled long distances to join my Martha sisters in celebrating this special day with me.

My journey to September 2006 goes back a long way. Throughout my school years I was a serious student and, although quite reserved, I was a participant in many sports, especially down-hill skiing. In my family, God and church had a place of importance. It seemed quite natural for me to feel the stirring of God in my life at an early age. In my teenage years, like many young people, I rebelled against this pull of God. Leaving my teens, attending college, seeing my friends making life choices brought me back to paying attention to what God might be asking of me. Ten years ago I knew in my heart I had to respond to the possibility that God might be calling me to religious life. I questioned why God would call me. I did not receive an answer, just a strong feeling that I had to come and see.

If you ask me why I chose to live consecrated vowed life as a way of life, my most honest answer would be that I believe that God has invited me and I want to say yes. This is where I feel whole. This way of life is a call to serve. Presently, I am studying toward a Fine Arts degree in Corner Brook, Newfoundland. As a Sister of St. Martha and responding to the cry for Gospel hospitality, I will be able to use my gift of art wherever I am called to serve.

Sister Debbie Pike