5-17-25 Spring Overflowing
Conversi – (Latin) turned; converted; one who has changed
This beautiful word serves as the name of our lay-associates’ online community. While they’re not nuns and monks by vocation, they are women and men who are very much committed to living out their Cistercian spirituality and formation in the places that God has called them to be. From canon law to art therapy, from refugee sheltering to foster-parenting, from ballroom dancing to ordained ministry – They’re a global, ecumenical, and awesome bunch.
A few weeks ago, some of our Conversi made their annual trip to our monasteries here in Northeast Iowa, both to benefit from each other’s actual presence for a few days, as well as to witness the commitment ceremony of their newest members. We, along with our brothers of New Melleray Abbey, were so happy so have them, and so inspired!
Anniversary of the Dedication of our Abbey Church
Our community was founded in 1964, and, with much grace and hard work, the construction of our church was complete by 1968. Our habits have changed a bit since then (see photo below), but our church stands firm. As we sing during the Liturgy of the Hours for this feast, “This is the house of the Lord, solidly built, founded on solid rock, alleluia!” In fact, our monastery is built upon a sandstone blufftop!
Statue 20.A: Each year all the sisters are to make a retreat of at least six days. -OCSO Constitutions
Cistercians are known for working hard, and it’s for good reason. But our role in the Church and world is to pray. Thus, the Constitutions of our Order stipulate how to make that “role” a reality. One way we do so is by setting aside one week each year for the whole community to make a retreat. We lay down our work tools and postpone our meetings. The house hushes. Oftentimes, the Earth lavishes us with glorious weather. And we pray.
This year, we made our retreat in mid-May. If weather could be perfect, it was! (Our muddy puppy concurs.) If monastic silence could blossom, it did!* If our hearts could be more full of gratitude for God’s graces, our vocations, and our life of prayer, they would be – But they’re full to overflowing!
(*We did, though, ring both of our bells, loud ‘n clear, when Pope Leo XIV was elected!)
