A young woman visited the Monastery over the weekend. She is a college junior and keeps returning to the idea of religious life. ‘S’ contacted us after looking at our website. In fact, we were the 4th religious community she has visited. She has been looking for a balanced community. Continue Reading
It has been nearly 11 years since I hung out with teenage girls and, probably, 15 years since I have been around teenage boys and girls together. This past weekend the Monastery hosted 14 students from St. Bede Academy, Peru, Illinois. Anyone over 40 can appreciate how I am still recovering! Continue Reading
As we continue our Lenten experience, the Scripture readings at Eucharist prepare us for the coming Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus. Jesus talks to the disciples about what will happen to Him. He wants them to ponder all He has taught them over the years together so they have a basis for teaching others when He is no longer present. Continue Reading
When a desert abba once said, “Watching means to sit in your cell and be always mindful of God,” he could have been talking about Centering Prayer. An ancient practice that may lead to contemplation, Centering Prayer helps practitioners, through silence, learn to rest in God – and know God. It is stunningly simple. Learn how.
My 84-year-old friend, Sister Rosemary Murphy, told me today that she had read my recent blogs and enjoyed them. So I asked her what I should write today to the women discerning their vocation. Her answer came out of today’s Gospel, when Jesus instructed his disciples how to pray. He said, Ask my Father for what you need and you shall receive it. Continue Reading
This weekend we had a 42-year-old woman visit the monastery as part of her discernment. ‘V’ perfectly fits the profile that our community considers a solid vocation possibility. In addition, she fits the profile of the culture for women her age. For instance, V is very pleased with and fulfilled in her professional life. Continue Reading
When you pray the Psalms during Lauds (the morning prayer that we say at 7 am), you lift your voice with the community of Benedictine Sisters of St. Mary Monastery in Rock Island, Illinois. Continue Reading
“Blessed are they who love the Lord.” Dt.
At Eucharist this morning the reading was from Old Testament Deuteronomy. In the story, Moses spoke to his people right before they were to enter the Promised Land. As they had struggled with being faithful to God during their many challenges, Moses encouraged them to stay faithful as they began their new life in a new land. He implored them to focus only on faithfulness to their One God who had brought them to this moment in time. Continue Reading
A Lenten Reflection from Prioress Phyllis McMurray, OSB
This is the season of Lent and seed catalogs. As we approach the spring of the year, gardeners make choices as they prepare for a thriving garden. During Lent we make choices that prepare us to celebrate more fully the mystery of our Redemption. Continue Reading
Last week was quite busy and delayed me in my blogging. After reflecting on what to write, it occurred to me that this would be a good opportunity to share a little about the workings of a Benedictine Monastery! Continue Reading
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