Sr. Treiza Yako, a member of the Chaldean Sisters, Daughters of Mary Immaculate Conception, is new to St. Therese. I recently met with her to learn about her calling, her years of service, and the faith she hopes to share with our parish community.
Discovering Her Calling
When did you understand your calling to become a nun?
I was born in Zakho, Iraq. When I was nine years old, a friend and I went swimming in the Khabur River during a picnic. Suddenly, I saw about 15 nuns nearby. I thought, “Wow! Are these angels from God? Who are these people?” When I asked, they told me they were nuns. I did not even know what a nun was.
In elementary school, I loved to sing and went to church every day, including for the Rosary and Mass. As I learned more about the sisters and their vocation, I began to think I would be a good nun. I wanted to be like them.
One day, a nun visited our village, and I told her that I wanted to become a nun. She was surprised, but her reaction only strengthened my conviction. In fifth grade, I told my classmates, “I want to be a nun. Will you come with me?” Five girls agreed, so the six of us traveled to Baghdad, the capital of Iraq.
I was very happy to serve God. When we entered the convent, we were amazed to see electricity and running water. Our village was very poor; we had no lights and carried small candles, and we did not have running water. To us, the convent seemed like heaven.
Before long, however, we became homesick and cried because we wanted to return home. The mother superior comforted us and gave us candy. We stayed through the school year, went home for the summer, and returned each year for five years.
Over time, my five friends chose to remain home with their families. I begged them to stay with me and prayed that they would return, but eventually I was the only one left at the convent. I felt very alone. Now I understand that my vocation was a gift from God. He has truly blessed me.
A Life of Service
Can you describe your journey through your years of service?
I was 16 when I became a nun, and I took my first vows in 1975. I was then sent to the United Arab Emirates, where I taught catechism to children at two schools. I spent two years in Sharjah and three years in Dubai, and I also served as a cook.
In 1982, I made my final commitment to the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. I then served in Baghdad for 10 years. Later, I spent another 10 years in Babylon, where I taught kindergarten and directed a choir. Every Saturday, we also cleaned and prepared the altar.
One tradition I especially remember is Palm Sunday. It was a major celebration: Children lined the long street, singing “Hosanna! Hosanna!” and waving palm branches.
In 1997, I was sent to Michigan, but after only 17 days I was assigned to San Diego, California, for two years. There, I taught catechism, helped the sisters cook, and led both Arabic- and English-language choirs.
I returned to Michigan in 1999 and served at St. Joseph, near 16 Mile and Dequindre, through 2003. I then spent 12 years in Farmington Hills, followed by 18 years at St. George on the east side, where I led the choir and helped with catechism and First Communion preparation.
A special connection to St. Therese
St. Therese has always been one of my favorite saints, and I share her name.
Prayer and Reflection
What is your favorite way to pray?
When I enter the chapel, I like to be alone—just Jesus and me. I talk to Him and pray with Him. I value silence and reflection because they help me focus.
I think quiet reflection is especially important today. Everyone is so busy that we do not always pay attention to what is happening around us or within us.
A Message for St. Therese Parish
What would you like to share with the people of St. Therese?
I like St. Therese and its people. I also appreciate the parish bulletin; not every church has something like it.
If someone is having a difficult day, I would tell that person: Go to church and talk to Jesus. He is our doctor and our healer. Listen, and He will speak to you. Tell Him whatever is on your heart. He is there for you and for me.
