Roxana
I grew up in the beautiful city of Valdivia, located in the south of Chile, about a 10-hour drive from the capital, Santiago. Valdivia is known for its abundant rainfall and its spectacular landscapes. In the summer, one of the most beautiful festivals in the country takes place, culminating in a fireworks display on a night that is amazing and unforgettable.
I am the second of four children, two boys and two girls. Our parents always taught us the value of education and hard, honest work as the path to growth and progress, as well as the importance of caring for and protecting the family. We are a very close family that loves to celebrate each other’s successes.
I learned about the Sisters of Mercy by chance. One day, in a conversation, someone mentioned the Sisters of Mercy with admiration for what they do, so I went on the Internet to learn more—what motivates them, what their impact is. And the more I researched, the more I wanted to meet them in person. Ever since I’ve first been in contact with the sisters—beginning in September of 2024—I have felt in every encounter just how the spirit of mercy flows through every action, every gesture, every new project. When I finally had the opportunity to experience the community in person, it not only confirmed what I had been observing about the sisters, but I was able to experience firsthand what hospitality means, the value of life and shared prayer, and the simple beauty of small things lived on the wings of mercy.
I decided to become a Sister of Mercy because, long before I met them, I sensed deep within myself that mercy was the path to follow Jesus, to fulfill his will, to live the commandment to love our neighbor—a path that the Lord Jesus offers me to channel the inner strength that drives me to service and to genuine, selfless love. But above all, a path that is shared with other sisters who feel the same passion for God and neighbor. I feel very supported in this desire to offer the world (that small part of the world which each of us inhabits) the best of Catherine’s legacy and the best of myself.
I am an admirer of creation and, in it, I admire the Creator. Therefore, in my free time I love to walk outdoors, especially places with water, and to contemplate in silence. I also love films that inspire me to be better (and have happy endings). I also enjoy reading; I’m always learning, so it is difficult to pick a favorite book—I just love books! I should mention The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri J.M. Nouwen, since contemplating the mercy of God of God the Father greatly influenced my conversion to Catholicism.