Sister Jane Zartman, CCVI, Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, Houston

When I felt the call to serve God as a woman religious, I didn't have any idea what the day to day life would be like. I just knew it was right for me.

I have always wanted to be a nurse. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing and a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy. The skills and knowledge I gained from these degrees have been very useful to me. I have worked in hospitals, nursing homes and clinics. Today I work as a Communication Specialist for my Congregation.

Every Patient Touched Me
As I look at my professional career, there are a few things that stand out in my mind. One was when I was a nursing student and had my first experience with death. Each death has touched me in a unique way and has affected my life. No matter how many deaths you experience, each one is difficult. Their deaths touched me as if I was a part of their family. I felt their sorrow and pain. I also hope that I was able to give them the support and compassion that they needed at this time. These times have helped me to understand what a family or friend feels when they lose a loved one.

When I worked in a parish, I visited the dying in their home. I also led a bereavement group for those who had lost loved ones. My desire was to express the love and compassion of Christ to the sorrowing. I wanted to let them know that in their sorrow, there is the hope of the Resurrection.

My life as a Sister of Charity of the Incarnate Word has been a wonderful way to serve God's people. I have done many things, gone many places and met many wonderful people. My life has been enriched by the many Sisters who have touched my life and have helped me to become the person that I am today!

Sponsoring Congregations: Sisters of Divine Providence; Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, Houston; Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament; and Dominican Sisters of Houston.