From our ongoing Jubilee gathering of 150 faith stories
Story of Faith by Karen Zimmerman (signed: Joyfully)
I would have to give Sister Denise the award for being one of the first influential Christians in my life. She was my second grade teacher in a small Catholic grade school. Second grade was a big year. It was when we made our First Holy Communion. I just loved the preparations leading up to the big day. I vividly remember making a flower with each construction paper pedal representing a Christian virtue. Sister Denise made it fun and meaningful in a way that still resonates with me to this day. Her teaching was joyful and passionate.
Sister Denise also came to our house for a special first communion dinner. I felt honored. When she came prepared to go snowmobiling with my family, I thought I might want to become a nun! After all, what could be better than living your faith, sharing your faith and having fun doing it?