Fall 2012: Spiritual Motherhood

Article by Sr. Margaret Mary, SJW

I have been teaching music at St. Joseph Academy since 1987.  My spiritual motherhood in my music classroom begins with Jesus Christ; my Divine Spouse.  It is only through this union with Him that all things are possible.  What makes apostolic service different from a professional career is that the goal is being worthy of Heaven rather than acquiring earthly riches.  

I make it a habit to periodically asking the following question of my students during music class as a reminder that our life on earth is to prepare us for eternal life in Heaven: “What is my most important job?”  At first everyone answered with enthusiasm: “TEACHING MUSIC!”  I replied: “No, you are wrong.”  I was trying to refrain from laughter as I listened to their reactions to my answer.  I began to explain... “My most important job is to lead you to Heaven.  I do this by means of music.  God’s gift of music is part of me being a spiritual mother to all of you.  I have a responsibility of helping you to get to Heaven.”  

Our music class motto is:  “Give back to God what He has given to us by giving it to others.”  I have the privilege of giving back to God what He has given to me by giving the gift of music to my students as they prepare for Heaven.