St Benedict calls the monastery a school of charity. It is here that the seeds of love and desire grow into a new manner of life, centered on Christ, and wholly ordered to contemplation. Our vocation is entirely devoted to the mystery of Christ, discovering the paradoxes of life in a self-emptying that leads to fulfillment, and a self-renunciation that leads to freedom and peace. It is not, however, some “other worldly” sublimation, but rather occurs within the rough and tumble of ordinary, daily events.
At prayer this morning I made a vow. I made the vow always to love Jesus. I now know what my vocation is. I’m nothing but a soul in love with Christ. He desires nothing more than my love and he desires it wholly free of everything and everybody. Mary, Virgin, help me to keep my vow–to love Jesus in everything, through everything and always–love alone. Love that is humble, generous, free, mortified, in silence. May my whole life be no more than an act of love.
Saint Rafael Arnaiz Baron, OCSO
Come and See
When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come and see.”
John 1:35-39
A vocation to monastic life is an experience of the grace of God poured out for you in a particular place and with particular people. Thus, it can only be discovered in that place and with those people. If Jesus is tugging at your heart, hinting that he has more to give you, we invite you to come and see our life. Twice a year we host “Come and See Weekends” that include praying the Liturgy of the Hours and the Eucharist with the community, discussion of our way of life and some sisters’ vocation stories, the opportunity for questions, silence and prayer, a one-on-one visit with a sister to ponder your own call, and time to enjoy the beauty of nature. These retreats are open to single Catholic women ages 18-40.
For more information, or to get in touch with us, fill out the form below or call our vocation director, Sr. Myra at 563-582-2595, ext 2114.
