Sister Marie Bernadette “Bernie” Inocencio entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange when COVID was fully underway in May of 2020. She made her initial profession of vows in July 2023 and continues to grow as a Sister of St. Joseph of Orange. For her, the community strengthens her relationship with God.
“A Congregation is a group of like-minded individuals with a common goal of working together to live the mission. There are more possibilities and opportunities as a group than as an individual.”
Through her ministry and time in community with her Sisters, Sister Bernie has nurtured her faith and personal growth.
“I am learning a lot about myself, expanding my views about God, and deepening my spirituality. I continue to understand life as a consecrated religious, about the vows, about Congregational values, community living, and relationships through classes and ministry involvement.”
Sister Bernie finds a deep connection through her ministry at the Center for Spiritual Development (CSD), in addition to involvement at the Diocese of Orange St. Joseph Filipino Ministry (DOSJFM), and in her journey toward becoming a spiritual director. She is entering her third and final year of studies in CSD’s renowned Art of Spiritual Direction program.
“My ministry at CSD, which currently includes writing reflections and giving retreats, as well as my studies are my contributions in providing spiritual growth and nourishment to people. My ministry with the Filipino community is also a part of the mission of bringing people together.”
Prior to her role at CSD, Sister Bernie helped at Regina Residence with their daily activities. She also spent time in Chicago, IL to learn more about the global impact of religious life. Upon her return, she served as Eucharistic Minister at St. Joseph Hospital. She is currently appointed as a member of the Finance Committee and helps the Liturgy Committee in writing petitions for Sunday Masses.
“While in Chicago, I served at the Education Lab at the Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation providing one-on-one tutoring, feedback, and support to young people. I alsoserved at the Bethany House of Hospitality with young immigrant women as they navigated their way to independence.”
Before becoming a Sister of St. Joseph of Orange, Sister Bernie worked in accounting, cared for her parents, and she served as a lector, choir member, eucharistic minister, and a Loaves and Fish minister at her St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Westlake Village, CA – her home parish for almost 30 years.
Her gentle spirit and friendly nature are clear to see through her dedication to helping people.
“My spiritual life leads me to see the dear neighbor without distinction and to bring people together in daily life. I consider the mission as part of life at every moment of the day: a mission of God to others and even to myself.”
Outside of her ministry work, she finds joy in reading, writing, cooking, and watching Korean dramas.
Sister Bernie is eager for what is to come in her ministry work and serving the dear neighbor.
“My ministry is part of my relationship with God. It is living the Gospel message of Jesus; it isloving God and loving God’s people.”
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