Sr. Ning: When God’s call never let go

My name is Sr. Gloria Orcena Sarol, and I’m affectionately known as Sr. Ning by my closest friends and family. I was born in the Philippines as the youngest of a family of six. My father was a farmer, and my mother was a dedicated catechist coordinator in our parish.

Growing up, I was a very energetic and outgoing child. When people would ask me what I wanted to be when I grew up, without hesitation, I would tell them that I wanted to become a nun. I admired that profession, not because of their work, but because how they presented themselves. I was particularly fascinated by the white cloth on their head and often wondered why they covered their heads with it. The image of a nun lingered in my mind, and I recall playing the role of a nun.

I shared my dream of becoming a nun with my mom, and she advised me to finish my studies first since I was still too young to enter the convent. Her words of encouragement gave me the conviction to pursue my goal, and I was convinced that I’d find my true calling once I’d completed my education. I studied at Bicol College of Arts and Trade, earning a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology.
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During my college years, my dream of being a nun seemed to slip away. I was committed to fulfilling my responsibilities in school, which involved a daily routine of studying, rising early, and attending classes. I had a supportive group of friends who regularly attended the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena on Wednesdays. Although I did not join them, I felt that God had instilled a sense of direction in my life.

My six-month practicum for my degree was completed in Manila, where I gained valuable experience and skills. Back in my hometown of Naga, I established my own small business through God’s blessing and my family's unwavering support. As my small business generated income, I found myself drifting away from my aspiration to become a nun, and it rarely crossed my mind anymore.

A friend, however, invited me to attend a “Search-In” event hosted by the Daughters of Mary, Mother of the Church Institute. This was a turning point for me, as it reignited my dreams and encouraged me to reflect more deeply on my vocation.

After attending the event, I took the time to share my feelings with my mom, and although she didn’t say much, the time we spent together was truly special and comforting. Months passed, and I went to see Fr. Mario Villaraza, SDB, our parish priest, because I needed him to write a recommendation for me to enter the convent. He refused to give me the recommendation. He told me I was only visible at Sunday masses, not at any other church activities. So, I joined the afternoon choir, as my main goal was to obtain a recommendation from him. After expressing interest in joining the choir, I received the required letter from him. I sang in the choir until I joined the community of Sisters.

When I was scheduled to enter the convent, I suffered a severe headache that lasted two weeks and forced me to postpone my plans. This unexpected setback turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as it gave me more time to reflect on my vocation and prepare myself spiritually for this big step.

I believe that when God extends a calling, His grace follows it. For me, that calling was to a life of religious devotion, where I’ve discovered the peace and love I was searching for in Jesus.

Twenty-seven years have passed since I entered the convent, and what a blessing it’s been. I recently celebrated my 25th anniversary of vows as a Daughter of Mary, and I’m filled with gratitude for this remarkable journey and my vocation. It has been a blessing for me to be here in Canada serving with my Sisters in the Diocese of Calgary.

My advice to young women searching for their vocation is to pray a lot and reflect about it. They should ask for guidance from a Vocation Director or a faith-filled friend. It really helped me to visit the community of Sisters that I joined. God bless you.

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Written by Sr. Gloria Orcena Sarol for Faithfully.