Meekness has always been a difficult fruit for me to accept. Too often I have associated it with being kind of wimpish; being unable to speak up or stand up for oneself. A meek person, in my book, was huddled in the corner in fear.
When I began to read Thomas Keating, I began to understand meekness as kindness: a rich and generous fruit. Continue Reading
Peace cultivates a sense of quiet knowing when we are rooted in God. Even when our lives are chaotic, painful, fearful and anxious, we can maintain interior peace. How? By practicing Centering Prayer. Continue Reading
“The Joy of the Lord is your Strength.” I have often said that I don’t mind hard work, stressful work or long hours if I enjoy my job and have some fun. Most of the time I have been able to work like that. It is a real gift that I have enjoyed my jobs. I know people who really dislike their jobs but the result of being able to provide for their family or get ahead financially brings them joy. I suppose that is one way to recognize the fruit of joy: that what we do is enjoyable or the results give us joy. Continue Reading
Jackie Walsh, recently of Bloomington, Ill., became Sister Jackie at the age of 53 on June 11. She had worked, lived and studied at St. Mary Monastery for three years before receiving her Benedictine pin (given by Prioress Sr. Phyllis McMurray, right). It had been a leap of faith and a labor of love. Continue Reading
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