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Yvrose Lubérisse

I have now completed a long and meaningful journey. Since the autumn of 2022, I was enrolled in the Master of Divinity program. I never expected to have this experience at my age, even though I never felt older than the other seminarians. Balancing work and study at the same time was both challenging and exhausting. Yet despite fatigue, illness, moments of feeling overwhelmed, and discouragement, I remained committed to seeing it through to the end. 

One of my biggest challenges was not being fully fluent in English, which meant I had to work harder than other students to keep up with the many readings and assignments and to understand the professors clearly. I can testify to the importance of supporting students who pursue their studies despite linguistic limitations. This opportunity allowed me to go beyond my abilities and fulfill a dream: to undertake theological studies, meet new people, engage in an ecumenical environment, overcome barriers, better understand others, and become more tolerant and open-minded. 

Studying in English improved my proficiency, and I became a better speaker and writer than I was at the beginning. I also drew on my experience as a French teacher to apply learning strategies that helped me adapt to this new environment. 

The most important question for me, however, was what I would do after my studies. At first, I thought I would become a minister. That is what I have prepared for, and in many ways, I already see myself as one. I have long been committed to the work of the Kingdom of God: for twenty years, I have worked with schools in Haiti on educational projects; I have supported students in Canada in reaching their academic goals; and I have served in spiritual formation by preparing children and adults for baptism, confirmation, and communion, as well as accompanying parents. 

These studies also brought a deep transformation in my soul, spirit, and mind. It was a true process of conversion, leading me to reflect on my calling and to seek the right motivations—not prestige, influence, or recognition, but genuine service. 

I am deeply grateful for the support I received from the Anglican Diocese of Montreal, members of St Hilda’s parish, and the community of the College and The Montreal School of Theology. I thank them wholeheartedly. 

I believe I am a better person than when I began, and that is already a great gift. Yet I have been trained to serve, and I must now find my place in doing so. I hope to be “salt and light” for the world (Mt 5:13–16) through caring for others, listening with empathy, offering guidance, praying with those in need, and helping them find consolation. I am passionate about preaching the Word of God. I trust that God will guide the rest of my journey, and I move forward with confidence in Him.