God has called me to serve a third year at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse (UWL). I am so excited to continue walking with the women the Lord has entrusted to me, and to meet the next incoming class! Go Eagles!!

When I got to college I kept Jesus at a distance and found myself straying from Him as the college culture overwhelmed me. I didn’t know how to pray, and I was completely oblivious to the depth of love God had for me and how personal our relationship could be.

During my sophomore year, I met a FOCUS missionary who invited me to join her bible study and attend SEEK – FOCUS’ national conference. At SEEK I encountered Jesus, real and present in the Eucharist. I heard the Gospel truly for the first time, and I committed my entire life to Christ in a way I never had before! I returned to campus with a heart on fire with zeal and with lots of questions. This missionary and many dear friends continued to invest in me as I learned more about the Catholic faith, committed to daily prayer and the sacraments, and went on to share my faith and lead others to encounter Christ. Knowing and responding to Christ’s love changed the entire trajectory of my college years.

Since I know His love, I am compelled to share it with all I meet.

After graduating from college, I lived this out in a secular job and parish life. During this time it became even more clear that the Church was in desperate need of young adults living vibrant Catholic lives. After much prayer, and being mistaken as a FOCUS missionary, I knew in God’s great love (and humor) He was asking me to drop my nets and give up the career plans I had. In what felt like an echo of the first time I committed my life to Christ in college, I said ‘yes’ again to a life completely committed to making Him known on mission. So in the local humble chapel, I gave God everything — my life, my job, my plans, my future. It has been the greatest decision to serve Christ full-time as a missionary with FOCUS, striving to give back everything that I have been given.

Would you join me?

This mission is difficult, beautiful, and worth every trial — and I cannot do it alone.

When I answered the call to join FOCUS, I made the decision to rely on the spiritual and financial support of a team of mission partners. I have been blessed with the most amazing people who have journeyed with me as I serve on campus, and I’d love to invite you to “go and make disciples of all nations” with us! If you are interested in joining me or would simply like to learn more, please let me know of the best way to reach you and I will schedule an appointment.

Many saints have said, “some give by going, others go by giving, but without both there would be no mission.” Without your “yes,” this mission would not be possible. So thank you! I am truly humbled and honored.

Be His,

Mariah Jackels