"The Life and Miracles of Fisher Alumna Bethany Lyle, 2005"

In lieu of an abstract, below is the essay's first paragraph. "When I started the transfer process to enter St. John Fisher College, I had intended to be an English major. After seeing an article about the internship program through the Religious Studies department, I sought out Fr. Costanzo to ask about that opportunity. Less than a week later I entered Fisher as a Religious Studies major. That internship program directly resulted in my current position as Ministry Staff Assistant at my parish. My job encompasses many areas, not the least of which is secretarial in nature; however, the essence of my role is to enable the Pastoral Team to devote more time to ministry and to the needs of parishioners. I have also had the chance to personally take part in many of the ministries, assisting with sacramental preparation programs, youth retreats, and the Parish School of Religion." This alumni corner is available in Verbum: http://fisherpub.sjfc.edu/verbum/vol7/iss1/13 “The Life and Miracles of Fisher Alumna Bethany Lyle, 2005” When I started the transfer process to enter St. John Fisher College, I had intended to be an English major. After seeing an article about the internship program through the Religious Studies department, I sought out Fr. Costanzo to ask about that opportunity. Less than a week later I entered Fisher as a Religious Studies major. That internship program directly resulted in my current position as Ministry Staff Assistant at my parish. My job encompasses many areas, not the least of which is secretarial in nature; however, the essence of my role is to enable the Pastoral Team to devote more time to ministry and to the needs of parishioners. I have also had the chance to personally take part in many of the ministries, assisting with sacramental preparation programs, youth retreats, and the Parish School of Religion. I have found that my time at Fisher has helped prepare me for the work that I do. My writing skills, so greatly tested at Fisher, have helped me with the numerous publications I have edited for the parish. The group work assigned in so many of my classes, though challenging at times, gave me insight into how to draw out individuals who are not naturally assertive, and encourage the full participation of all group members. The major in Religious Studies gave me the opportunity to delve deeper into the faith that I had grown up in, and at the same time learn about faith traditions different from my own. The Professors challenged what was ‘thought,’ presented what is ‘known’ and encouraged growth in my personal beliefs. The coursework introduced me to great theologians and inspiring scriptures, created an appreciation for Theology and provided the tools for further study. Since my time at Fisher, I have had the chance to read some of the profound works of Athanasius, Bonaventure, Therese of Avila, and C.S. Lewis. These works helped me build on the foundation of understanding and knowledge that I received through the Religious Studies program. I found many welcoming, accepting, and encouraging people at Fisher who drew me into their groups and activities. Some of my closest friends are those I met at Fisher. My years there were a true blessing. The people I met, the things I learned, and the experiences I had at Fisher greatly impacted my life. Thank you to all who contributed to the wonderful education I received.