By Sister Catherine Cleary OSB

The third Sunday of Advent is called Gaudete Sunday because “Rejoice” (Latin word is gaudate) is the theme for the day: Rejoice always. It’s the Sunday we light the pink candle.

In a sarcastic mood we might ask, “What is there to rejoice over?” The economy  is tough, the unemployed are hurting, children still go to bed hungry. What is there to rejoice about? Continue Reading

By Sister Catherine Cleary

Recently, We prayed a marvelous passage from Isaiah, one  that has been memorized by the four Evangelists and used by Handel in his Messiah: “Prepare you the way, let the mountains be brought low, the crooked ways straight, the rough ways made plain. Make straight a highway for our GOD!” Continue Reading

By Sister Ruth Ksycki, OSB

Watch!  Wait!  Be Alert!  Be Awake! are the words that usher in Advent. The gospel of Mark (13:33-37) uses the image of the gatekeeper being on watch for the master’s return. What does it mean for us to once again watch, wait, be alert and awake for the Incarnation – God made flesh and Emmanuel – God with us?

As I pondered this, I thought about the gatekeeper who is always looking and scanning the horizon day and night for signs. Continue Reading

By Sister Catherine Cleary, OSB

The short days of sunlight and the long days of darkness, the early dusk and the late dawn bring about a quiet, serene atmosphere as the Sisters come in from their various ministries. The drill is predictable: sign in, hang up your coat, secure a memorable spot for your book bag. We pat down our hair, hoping the wind on the hill did not do too much damage, all with haste, urgency. We slow down as we approach the chapel doors. The first Sisters to arrive hold the doors open for the rest of us. Quietly we enter, make a profound bow, take holy water and settle into our choir stalls. Several minutes go by. The organ sounds “G.” The cantor intones “O God come to my assistance.” Another Advent Vespers begins.