Reflections from Nuns on the Bus Virtual Tour

This fall, 10 Giving Voice participants took part in NETWORK’s Nuns on the Bus Virtual Tour. Read two reflections here! 

“I’m drawn to the work of NETWORK because my first vocation is to the work of creating a more just society – a society in which all people have a reasonable opportunity for self-improvement and self-actualization. The opportunity to be a Nun on the Bus was particularly exciting because the Nuns on the Bus campaign was my first introduction to NETWORK.

This year’s tour – with the added element of being virtual – has given me the opportunity to talk to people about real frustrations that they face in their communities and real issues that they care about. We’ve seeded opportunities for community and encouragement, which seems so sorely needed at this time. I’ve been reminded of the humanity of all people. And I leave the conversations with hope about the goodness of humanity and what we can build together as we move past 2020 and into whatever the future has in store for us.

I am certain that the work we face as a nation after this election will be hard and sometimes painful, but I am equally certain that together we can begin to heal the deep wounds of our nation and create a society of justice, peace, and opportunity for all – and especially working to right the wrongs of both near and distant past.” 

–Emily TeKolste, SP, Grassroots Mobilization Specialist at NETWORK (pictured on the right) 

“As an intern (or “fellow”) this semester at NETWORK, I’ve had the opportunity to work with sisters who have submitted videos for the Nuns on the Bus Tour, as well as meet them on the bus. Time and time again during this virtual trip, I was reminded about the universal charism of religious life and the energy for good trouble is born when people gather together.

At the Dubuque Town Hall, I was surprised to find the congregational leader for the Congregation of the Humility of Mary in my break out group. (Our communities share the same founders). How else would I have the opportunity to share this conversation with her if I were not a nun on the bus?

Then, in Cleveland, I found myself leading a small group comprised mostly of sisters from my own community. Because of COVID, I had not seen some of them (in person) in more than seven months. And, here, we had this opportunity to share on a different level about our commitment to social justice and bringing more abundant life to God’s people, especially the poor.

Each Site Visit and Town Hall inspired me and introduced me to many people and organizations who bring hope to so many people. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to share a small piece of this election season with them.”

-Eilis McCulloh, HM, Sisters of the Humility of Mary