What We Do
Sisters' Stories
Sr Lucy Martinez fmdm
At least once in our lives we have dreamed of doing something special, even of being a saint ... I have not started yet but I am working on it!! Today I want to share with you some of my own journey as a Franciscan nun ... it is a love story.
I was born on the rock of Gibraltar, to delightful parents, both faith-filled people and we loved each other dearly. From a very early age the idea of becoming a nun appealed to me not because I was a holy person but because I simply wanted to dedicate my life to God and that was it ....I simply felt this deep love within me for Him. Yet I could not talk to anyone about my intentions as I had a very ill mother and obviously she would get very upset. My friends could not understand me and said I was mad. I loved study and enjoyed scripture, religious education, languages and of course sports.
After a few years I went to see a priest who directed me to reflect, pray and listen to what God was really telling me. At the age of fifteen I went to see the Bishop who told me I was too young. I was informed that a new order of Franciscan nuns was coming to Gibraltar and I would just love them. Sure enough I did. They opened a Home for the Aged which gave me insight into some of their ministry and prayer life.
At the age of sixteen my dear mother had a talk with me and asked that I wait until I was twenty‑one. So when I finished my education at eighteen years old I got a job as a civil servant. I really enjoyed working in this field and made very good friends…yet it was when I was having a great time that I felt there was something special and better to look forward to.
In September 1965 I entered the Congregation of the FMDMs. So began my journey following in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi entering a contemplative and active way of life. Like Francis we lived a life of simple tasks, living in community, prayer life etc.
God still calls ... the call is still the same. My call to Religious Life with the FMDMs was first given to me by God. Faith in Him was passed on by my parents ....my mentors, teachers and spiritual directors who continue to guide me. These are my unsung heroes and shepherds giving witness to the gospel in ordinary ways ... it is the 'little ones' who continue to inspire me. The answer is right in front of us ....living the gospel and a simple way of life ....if we play our part God will do the rest.