In this month’s “Ministry of the Month,” the Midwest District is featured. The ministry is the Midwest District office and the position is Young Lasallians Coordinator with Lasallian Volunteer, Molly Nocera, 15-17. Molly is a graduate of St. Mary’s University of Winona and La Salle Academy of Providence.
Molly Nocera, 15-17
WHAT IS THE YOUNG LASALLIANS COORDINATOR POSITION? Molly is serving in the Midwest District office (Burr Ridge, IL) as the Young Lasallian Coordinator. Her role as YL coordinator is to support Young Lasallians and share more about the Young Lasallian movement. The movement began internationally and was designed to help support young people vocationally. Young Lasallians are typically 16-35 year olds who have been positively influenced by the mission. She works under the guidance of Br. Michael Kadow, FSC, Auxiliary Visitor of the Midwest. Together they focus on three sub-groups within the age range; high school, college, and post grads/young professionals. They have spent the last year traveling to various Lasallian Schools and ministries presenting about Young Lasallians and Lasallian Vocation. During their visits, they invite young people to remain connected to the mission and help build community.
HOW DID MOLLY BECOME A LASALLIAN VOLUNTEER?
A graduate of both a Lasallian high school and university, Molly had her sights set on the LV program since her senior year in high school from a conversation with an important mentor. Her theatre teacher, Ms. Elissa Cerros, encouraged her to think about applying. She says, “During my senior year at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, I resurrected the idea of applying. I went on the website and explored site opportunities, the mission, shared blogs, etc. I felt gravitated to the program and applied shortly after.”
Brother Michael and Molly presenting during one of their trips.
HOW DOES MOLLY TOUCH THE HEARTS AND MINDS OF STUDENTS?
Molly is not in a classroom or agency. However, she works with students by presenting on vocation and mission, helping them to get excited to stay connected to the Lasallian world after high school. She says, “In my role, I don’t work with students every day. I do, however, get to present to high school seniors with Br. Michael Kadow, FSC. Being present with their class and listening to them share about their Lasallian experience is uplifting. I may not get to witness the impact I have on them, but working with young people has certainly impacted my year as a volunteer.”
HOW HAS LIVING WITH THE DE LA SALLE CHRISTIAN BROTHERS IMPACTED MOLLY AS A LASALLIAN VOLUNTEER?
Molly and Brother Michael with a statue of the Founder
Molly has had a tremendous community experience over the last two years. She has learned so much from her Brothers and credits them for teaching her many valuable skills. She spoke very passionately about the spiritual companionship she received during her time working with Brother Mike who has given her a lot of wisdom when it comes to discernment and prayer. She said, “Living with Christian Brothers has been truly a rewarding experience. The Brothers walk with you on your journey as a volunteer. They are always available as a source for advice, encouragement, or wisdom. Oh, and don’t forget the little things, too! Because of the Brothers I now know how to cook chicken, how to navigate my way around Chicago, and to always remember I’m in the holy presence of God.”
WHAT DO VOLUNTEERS IN THE 2016-2017 COHORT SAY TO COLLEGE SENIORS ABOUT THE LASALLIAN VOLUNTEER PROGRAM?
Molly’s two years have flown by and she is going to be an alumna of a program she holds dear to her heart. She wants to encourage juniors and seniors to apply to Lasallian Volunteers because it has been such an important part of her formational journey. She says, “If you are looking for a year filled with discovery and support, then I strongly encourage you to apply. Our program is unique because of the many opportunities for all kinds of talents! I majored in Theatre and was involved in improv and campus ministry. The Lasallian Volunteer program placed me in a ministry where they knew I could utilize these talents. I am appreciative for this formative experience and I will cherish the lessons I’ve learned as a volunteer.”