Ashley Kutter
Holidays are usually known for the joy they bring while surrounded by family and friends. For sophomore Ashley Kutter, her first Easter away from her family brought just the opposite. She was homesick and lonely, until a senior hallmate, Camila, stepped in. Camila invited Ashley to spend the holiday at a retreat with new friends, and over that weekend Ashley gained a new “sister” that she knows will be with her for life.
“As we grew closer during the retreat, she helped me feel at home at Notre Dame and in Walsh Hall. I felt it was no mistake that we were both in Walsh—it was God’s perfect plan. In that season of homesickness, God poured belonging and joy into my life through Camila and showed me the joy that can be found in friendship through Christ.
“During this season of Advent, God showers us with the light of belonging and joy through our families, friends, and wider communities. Just as God brought Elizabeth and Mary together at the moment they most needed one another, God placed the right person in my life at the right time and revealed the joy that can be found in friendship rooted in Christ. How can we look for opportunities to be that source of comfort for another person this season?”
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What timing that I view this video minutes after I just helped a homeless person seek medical care for his dog that was visibly injured in a fight with another dog.
Sometimes God comes to us disguised as ourselves.
Merry Christmas, Ashley! Thank you for sharing your story. You are never alone.
So true!
Ashley’s story puts in mind the prayer of St. Francis which keeps ahead of ourselves the needs of others. Then as we live this life of service, we are continually in sync with Christ. This sacred story wants me to be a Camilla.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful story. Notre Dame is a special place. It’s so wonderful that you recognized God’s part in placing Camilla in your life. I’m not sure I would have recognized that at such a young age. God bless you.
Feeling homesick is real and so difficult. The Lord used Camila for that moment and it sounds like a lifetime. His plan is so perfect – the good the bad and the painful and the lonely – thank you for the reminder to trust Him always.
I use to receive this every day but not now
I enjoy these daily prayers and love the stories of students in Advent..
God is Good….Marry Christmas to you and Camila….Go IRISH!!!!
So beautiful Ashley, thankyou. Your story shows God does not abandon us – He knows who and what we need when we need them!
Be someone’s Elizabeth today.
Dear Ashley,
God has so richly blessed you! Your message is so uplifting and beautiful!
The beauty of Notre Dame friendships. So nice. Thank you for sharing. Wonderful Advent message. ND’72🍀
And to think that your middle name is Elizabeth and that you are in Walsh Hall with Mary and Elizabeth over your chapel altar! God is always working his magic. God bless you Ashley!
I also lived in Walsh Hall and was lonely until a classmate invited me to join her. More than 25 years later, we talk often and have a video call today! I am so grateful for Boo’s invitation and so glad I said yes. True friendship and faith supports us throughout our lives.
What a wonderful Walsh experience. I was happy in Walsh Hall 68-70. I would love to see what the chapel looks like now, and delighted by the stories of Domers reaching out to share their spirituality.
Thanks for your reflection Ashley! We all need help at times in our lives ☘️
Thanks for your reflection Ashley! We all need help at times in our lives ☘️
This story touched me deeply today, Ashley. That you made the connection between your experience and the encounter between Mary and Elizabeth is profound and exactly what I needed to hear today. As a proud alum of both Notre Dame and Visitation, Vita, Dulcedo, Spes + Live Jesus!
Thank you for sharing your story.
Memories rushed back as I listened to your beautiful reflection. During my senior year at Saint Mary’s a friend of a friend invited me to her home during that short Easter break. She was from a family of 14, yet I was welcomed with open arms. Needless to say I had a blast!