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CHARLOTTE — Talking with Sandy Caldera means an recharge of energy. She is a person with an engaging personality, full of optimism, one of those who normally doesn't get tired at the end of the day. We begin our conversation giving her a short overview about the expectation for her visit and all the preparation for this seventh Eucharistic Congress and then, we asked a few questions:

Q: How do you feel before your first visit to Charlotte?

A: Well, first of all, thanks for the opportunity to talk to all my brothers and sisters in Charlotte. It was a really nice surprise knowing about this presentation in Charlotte. It is a vibrant and emergent city, yet not often so visited for many Hispanics. That made this project even more attractive. We are so excited to be able to be with you, to meet all of us in Adoration to Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.

Q: How would you define the music ministry you carry on, as a way to get close to God?

A: On one side, I would define this ministry as a real blessing to me, since this is also my real passion, I really enjoy it. I also feel that the gift of praising through my voice allowed me to become a praise vehicle for others, to reach out for Christ, through music. On the other hand, I think this ministry is one of the most in need of support. We are not used to offer much support to those with some musical gifts and talents and prefer to use "playbacks" or music CDs in worship, instead of promoting their professionalism, and having them to play live. In that particular sense, I also feel my gift as playing a role to open doors and help promote an awareness in the support to our music ministers, letting them grow professionally.

Q: Is this referred to the music industry created by evangelical Christian music, for example?

A: Yes. Musically speaking, many brothers and sisters from other churches were able to support and later build a music industry of praise and worship. I think our Catholic tradition and the richness of our sacraments, for example, are a perfect ground to grow and nurture a true and real love for music committed to the Lord. It is the moment to discover, promote and multiply our musical talents.

Caldera shares her busy agenda and life with her husband, Elliott González Vásquez, her "right arm" and drummer in her band, and they have one daughter. In 2009, Sandy published her first book, "Dios quiere restaurar tu corazón" ("God wants to restore your heart"). She also hosts the radio show "Oasis de Amor" aired every day through Catholic Radio Guadalupe in Los Angeles.

As we finish the conversation, she reminds us of her future projects: "I have projects for the three biggest areas of my life: as a psychologist, I want to continue writing books to help Hispanic families; as a singer, I would like to keep growing professionally, opening new windows in music and promoting new talents to praise the Lord through music; and finally, as a mother and wife, I would like to keep living according to what I always preach, bringing happiness to my little daughter and my wonderful husband."

— Carlos Castañeda, Catholic News Herald