February 24, 2013

Being Flooded with God's Presence and Light

By Sister Catherine Cleary, OSB

There is hope in all the readings for today’s Eucharist (Gen 15:512, 17-18; Phil 3:17-4:1; Gospel Lk 9:28-36).

The basis of our hope extends beyond our vision, even beyond our life here. To live here we are obliged to see the hereafter!

In the first reading, the “flaming torch” expresses the wonder and mystery of God’s promises and Abraham’s hopes at the center of this one life between them. Next, Paul reminds us that our citizenship is in heaven and from it we also await a savior the Lord Jesus Christ. Continue Reading

February 16, 2013

The Lenten Temptations of Jesus … and Us

By Sister Catherine Cleary, OSB

The first 3 words of the gospel for the 1st Sunday of Lent are “Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit” (Luke 4:1-13). Let’s begin our reflection with the reminder that we, too, are full of the Holy Spirit. During Lent, we are invited to travel with Jesus in the desert for 40 days. With Jesus, we take this time to die to self and prepare to arise with the Risen Lord.

The 3 temptations of Jesus – told in today’s gospel – are played out in our life. We, too, are guided by the Holy Spirit. Continue Reading

February 10, 2013

Would you be a good Benedictine Sister?

What kind of woman makes a good Benedictine Sister? We asked Sister Mary Core, OSB to share her thoughts with us. Take a look, and email us if her answers resonate for you. We look forward to hearing from you!

Q. What kind of woman is best-suited for Benedictine life?

A. Religious life is for emotionally, mentally and spiritually healthy women. We are not here to hide from the world.

A key to Benedictine monasticism, in particular, is that it is not a call to participate in a ministry, per se, but a call to seek God. You don’t become a Benedictine because you want to teach or pursue medicine or social work, although you might do any one of those – or other – ministries. Benedictine life is rooted in community and prayer. Continue Reading