Sister Lorraine Malo's Story

It is only in love that the human heart is happy and in loving action that fulfillment and peace reside

Background

My life began in Manitoba. Our lives were simple - centered on family, school, and parish. We moved to Vancouver when I was 11. I met the Sisters of St. Joseph and fell in love with them. They seemed a happy group! I wanted to share their joy.

At 17, I felt the desire to do something meaningful. After some years, I presented myself to the Sisters and much to my surprise, they accepted me! I'd listened too long to my teasing brothers saying that I wasn't 'nun-material'! I'm grateful they were wrong!

My early years were spent teaching elementary school. Eventually, I completed further studies and became a hospital chaplain. I relished that ministry of presence to people who are at vulnerable points.

Turning Points

Somewhere along the line, my desire to serve the poor surfaced. I decided to visit Haiti for a six-month trial. I fell in love with that poor country and its courageous people.

I now work with Nuestros Pequeňos Hermanos, (Our Little Brothers and Sisters) a Christian organization that provides a permanent home for orphaned, abandoned and at-risk children who live in poverty.

Throughout the years, I've had many roles - teaching, pharmacist at a clinic in the slums of Port-au-Prince, chaplain for critically-ill children and coordinator of volunteers. Presently, I work in a rehabilitation centre offering therapy and school programs for special needs children. It is a privilege to work with the Haitian people. Even after the devastating 2010 earthquake, they remain unflinching in the face of hardship.

Today

I would not last in Haiti if it were not for God's love for me. Our senior Sisters pray for me every day and I feel sustained and strengthened by their prayers. The awareness that my efforts help people whose lives are a daily struggle to survive is also a source of strength for me. It is only in love that the human heart is happy and in loving action that fulfillment and peace reside.

To read more Sisters' Stories, please see Meet A Sister