A Life-Time of Yes

RB 58 “The one to be received comes before the whole community in the oratory and promises stability, fidelity to monastic life, and obedience.”

From our oldest Sister, Sr. Cabrini, who made her final profession in 1944, all the way down to me, who made my final profession in 1999, our Sisters have pronounced these words publicly from the Rule of St. Benedict, as our promise to God and to the community. This promise binds us together in living the Gospel in a particular way with a particular group of women for the rest of our lives. A beautiful life…… a challenging life. I have been asked how can you make that kind of promise for life? Well, I respond, how could you promise to be married to the same man or woman for the rest of your life? Or how can you commit to the same work or career? Or stay in one parish year after year? We are sustained by grace and called in faith. It is beyond our ability to stay committed and faithful. God is the Faithful and Steadfast One. God shares these gifts with us as we open ourselves to the ordinary circumstances of our lives and say “Yes”.

A seed cannot grow unless it is planted and takes root. So it is with us as we grow into who God is calling us to be.

Sr. Marie Therese, OSB