Becky Nass
- Hometown Evansville, IN
Degrees Pursuing at Saint Meinrad
- MA Theology, Specialization Certificate in Scripture
When did you begin your studies?
Summer 2018
What influenced you to begin studying for a master’s degree in theology?
My journey to Saint Meinrad began with a desire to know more about my faith. I desired to dive deeper into Catholicism than “YouTube catechesis” could take me. The next logical step in my personal growth was to officially study theology to grow in intimacy with the faith I passionately profess and in turn, to grow in intimacy with Christ.
What else are you doing besides working toward a master’s degree (work, family, volunteer work)?
I took private vows in 2021, consecrating myself to Our Lord and becoming the bride of Christ. My family consists of my parents, my five brothers, their spouses, 18 nieces and nephews, and five super nieces and nephews who help me see the world through the eyes of a child.
I work at OneMain Financial in the insurance department as a supervisor in customer and vendor relations, to put it simply.
I have volunteered in various capacities at local parishes. My favorite volunteer roles are proclaiming the readings at Mass, visiting shut-ins, and taking communion to them. I also enjoy volunteering with St. Jude Research Hospital’s ALSAC Foundation.
Favorite saint and why?
I cannot just choose one saint. I have a saintly prayer army that is led by St. Joseph and our Blessed Mother. I prayed for St. Joseph’s intercession for years, but it was not until I took private vows on the memorial of St. Joseph the Worker that he was solidified as my spiritual father and protector. Both Mary and Joseph are powerful intercessors and models of the power of silent witness. I hope to grow in these areas so I can bring others to Christ just as they did.
Favorite Scripture verse and why?
Scripture is Christ’s way of dialoguing with me, so I don’t have just one favorite scripture verse. John 15, Jesus’ discourse on the vine and the branches, has stayed with me throughout my studies, in particular John 15:16, “It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain.” It speaks deeply to my heart because it is a reminder that faith is not of my own volition, but Christ choosing me. My choice comes with remaining attached to the One who chose me and to accept the invitation of our Blessed Trinity to enter into the divine dance of His undying love.
Hobbies?
Studying theology has been my hobby for several years. I enjoy traveling, photography, and collecting religious art. Currently, I am into collecting icons for my icon corner and sharing my love of icons with others.
What aspect of your coursework has been most rewarding?
I think growing in relationship with Our Lord by growing in greater understanding of the Church He established has been the most rewarding part of this journey. Coursework is not easy, but as a quote attributed to St. Catherine of Siena states, “Nothing great is ever achieved without much enduring.”
What aspect of your coursework has been most challenging?
Juggling a full-time job, life’s demands, and keeping up with coursework are the most challenging aspects of studying theology part-time. Studying while working full-time was more difficult than I initially anticipated, but the rewards definitely outweighed the challenges.
What plans, if any, do you have after you receive your degree?
I graduated with my MA-Theology in May, and this is my Pentecost. Only God knows where my degree will take me. I am docile and excited for the next adventure. I am not finished studying at Saint Meinrad. I began working towards a Specialization Certificate in Scripture as part of my coursework and plan to finish it.
This summer, I will be a catechist for the first session of Saint Meinrad’s youth conference, “One Bread, One Cup.”
Other comments?
When I began my studies, I stood at the foot of a mountain and the climb seemed daunting. The summit was nowhere in sight. Now that I have reached the summit and have graduated, I anxiously await the next mountain our Lord asks me to climb. My advice for anyone interested in studying theology is to go for it. You will never know what God has in store for you if you don’t take the risk.