A Soul for Every Light - Los Angeles

Ada, Rossella, Jillian, Anna
2006 MI Family Picnic

I have no doubt a Providential mind inspired Fr. Luigi Faccenda to ask me, an 18 year old whom he knew only as a very active member of the MI Youth group in my parish, to accompany him on his first trip to the newly opened community and mission in California. It was November 1984.

As our plane was flying over the astounding sight of Los Angeles' evening lights, I found myself wondering how many people inside those skyscrapers, cars, and buildings went about their life oblivious to God's love and mercy.

"Extending a hand to all and leading all men to God throught the Immaculata is a mission worth living, working, suffering, and even dying for."

It sounded like an interior whisper and prompting from St. Maximilian. As our visit unfolded, it became a clear invitation that sealed years of vocational discernment: I was called to be a Fr. Kolbe Missionary of the Immaculata. I had received so much from the Lord, and so many - even in a place as advanced as Los Angeles - did not yet know His love.

I cannot but thank the Lord and the Immaculata for sending me back to be part of this challenging and exciting mission, and finally, somehow, to pay off my debt!

- Ada Locatelli