Always Ready

I am a person who is very flexible and loves to be spontaneous.  These are good qualities to have if they are kept within limits.  Realistically, there is very little way to maneuver through life successfully without a little bit of openness to the unexpected.  The emphasis needs to be on it being just a little bit rather than the norm for life.

Benedict, throughout the Rule, calls for a readiness to act as soon as God's direction/call is revealed in daily life.  As soon as:

• I hear the call for prayer,
• I receive a request from the Prioress,
• I see the person in need,
• the guest arrives at the door,

at that moment, I am to put aside whatever else might be present to me and proceed to attend to God in that situation.

How open am I today to respond to God's call in the dailiness of life?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Is God Calling You or Someone You Know???

Years ago, shortly after my high school graduation, a close friend invited me to meet some friends of his and to spend a few days with them.  His "friends" were young Sisters from a local community that were hosting a community experience in a couple of weeks. 

This was the first group of women religious whom I met whom I could actually picture myself as. Although I had grown up with Sisters practically in my own backyard, I had really never pictured myself as one of them.  Here was a community of women, though, that I could actually even consider joining.  They were alot like me--they enjoyed music, they danced, they laughed, they prayed, they had fun...they actually were human.  I was instantly intrigued.

That was over 30 years ago now.  Do you happen to know a single, Catholic woman who might be a good fit for our monastic community or is open to the call of God in her life?  There is an opportunity for you to introduce her to us. 

Please feel free to invite any single Catholic woman between the ages of 18 and 35 to consider our Monastic Moment experience or to contact us at (918)746-4205 or vocations@stjosephmonastery.org.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Have you ever thought about monastic
religious life?
We did.
We think you should, too.

Join the Benedictine Sisters of
Saint Joseph Monastery for a brief
experience of monastic life.
Friday, November 9 -
Saturday, November 10,
6:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Experience a community
of prayer and work.
You will love getting to know them!
To register, call Sister Catherine at
918-746-4205 or email
srcatherine@stjosephmonastery.org
Your friends, Benedict & Scholastica
Saint Joseph Monastery
2200 S. Lewis Avenue, Tulsa, OK

Loving Your Neighbor as Yourself

Growing up, as the oldest in our family, I learned quickly that there is always someone smaller, more frail, or more in need that needs care and protection.  By virtue of being the oldest and the biggest, my task in life was to care for the younger or whoever might have a need before taking care of myself.  Being an overachiever by nature, I took this on as my life motto and soon learned to be very focused on the needs and concerns of others.  Often to the point of enabling dependencies and totally denying that I had any needs of my own.

Today's reading from the beginning of Chapter 4 on the tools for good works brings up the point that I can only really care for others and their needs to the extent that I am caring and compassionate towards my own needs.  It's that whole concept that I can not possibly give to others what I am denying to myself.  So, in a sense, as well-meaning as my parents message of caring for others was, I really need to remember to care appropriately for myself first so that I have a wealth from which to share. 

In my adult years, I have worked hard to find that balance within myself of love and care of self and concern for others.  It is still so much easier to drop whatever my needs are and run to rescue someone else, but I have come to realize that not only is it often not helpful but it can encourage others to depend on me.

Today, I am called to show the same measure of concern for others as I do for myself.  How am I helping others today to grow in their self-care?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

A School for the Lord's Service

Therefore we intend to establish a school for the Lord's service.  RB80.Prol.45

I am a life-long learner by nature.  I have always been curious asking lots of questions and trying to increase my awareness of the world around me.

Today we hear that monastic life is intended to be a school for the Lord's service.  So, what is the curriculum in this school supposed to be?  And who are to be the teachers?  We already have gotten a glimpse of the proposed end-goal in the earlier allusions to participation in God's kingdom but some of the finer details have not been presented yet.

In my years of living this life, I have come to realize that the curriculum is embedded within the monastic community and fully participating in that life.  It is the lessons of patience, humility, and service that we learn daily.  It is in the forgiveness that we extend to one another and the mercy received as we interact at table, in work, at recreation and other times.  We are all the "teachers" in this school...just as we all have an opportunity to be the students at various times also.  We do this together...helping one another along, one step at a time, one day at a time.

What am I doing to be the best "teacher" I can be in this school today?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Running Towards the Kingdom

If we wish to dwell in the tent of this kingdom, we will never arrive unless we run there by doing good deeds.  RB80.Prol.22

I have recently embarked on a personal journey toward greater wellbeing which has included an exercise/activity component as well as nutrition and other aspects.  Since my new found interest in exercise, the concept of running towards the kingdom of God in monastic life grabbed my attention.

What are the components that are necessary to move towards God in daily life?  What is the training program that I need to commit to for living intentionally and faithfully?

Although I will probably never get all the pieces of life just right, there are small steps that I can take daily in my training for life. 

• I can commit to full participation in monastic life as it is lived at St. Joseph Monastery.  I can show up for prayers, meals and community gatherings ready to be engaged in whatever is happening.
• I can do my part to be a good example of our life for our employees, students, guests and those with whom I live.
• I can strive daily to maintain some of the initial fervor and excitement which was present initially when I first entered our community and was in initial formation.

By doing these small things, I will eventually inch my way towards the kingdom of God with my monastic community.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

After an extended summer hiatus, this blog will resume posting reflections on monastic life and the Rule of St. Benedict.

The Rule of Benedict begins with the word listen.  I am a person who loves to talk, words and communication, so I am fascinated with the idea of listening.

Listening is more than hearing.  Whereas hearing is a natural function, listening requires my acknowledgement that sound was produced that needed to be heard.  Listening is an intentional activity.  Listening invites me to open my ears and my heart to the message that the other person has to share.  Often, it is in listening to another person that I can find God's voice in my life.

Am I willing to open my heart to listen to God's voice today?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

The Need for Order

Our daily reading of the Rule of Benedict for today is taken from the Rule's Liturgical Code (chapters 8--20).  A large portion of this section deals with the distribution of the psalms for the various liturgical hours of prayer.  At first glance, these selections would seem pretty dry and not that meaningful; except that common prayer is so central to the life of a community.  Monastic communities are supposed to be spiritual and prayer based by design, after all.  There is also the fact that groups need a sense of order and organization if they are to function as anything other than chaotic masses.

Having a basic outline for common prayer allows me to be able to focus more on why I am there (the praise of God) rather than the mechanics of what comes next.  All I need to do is allow myself to be present to the reality of the moment and follow along in the book.  I do not need to be distracted wondering about what is to follow.

I am a person that does not necessarily care for lots of external order and structure.  I can function in an orderly environment but am much more comfortable in a less organized world.  This is true even after more than 25 years in a monastic community.  I have come to appreciate, however, the wisdom in having a set plan that is followed in many areas. 

What did I do today to be more present to God in my life?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Cenobites: The Strong Kind

At the outset of the Rule, Benedict sets forth who is audience is intended to be.  In Chapter 1, he lists the four types of persons that can be found in groups. 

One of the types that Benedict describes are the sarabaites.  These are folks who try to form community but limit themselves to those who are like-minded and will not challenge their current system. 

According to Benedict, they are not tested as gold is tried in a furnace.  I don't know much about working with gold but I do understand the science behind heating a metal to clear it of impurities and the value of  having an ore that is pure and singular.  In Benedict's plan, the monastic is to be like that gold that has been purified through fire/testing/struggle.  It is in relationships with others around us that we learn about ourselves and about God's compassion.  It is in coming back day after day and being with one another (in good times and difficult times) that we learn the lessons of humility, compassion and honesty that we need for our life today.

May I daily become more and more like that gold which has been tested in life.

Sr. Catherine

Listening and Speaking to Visitors

Hospitality has traditionally been a hallmark of monasteries and monastic communities.  In medieval Europe, where travel could be long and trechurous, there was a need for havens of hospitality.  Monasteries became those places of rest that were safe to stop at for a brief respite.

The Rule of Benedict provides much instruction on the reception and the attitude towards guests and pilgrims.  Chapter 66 on the porter (gatekeeper, modern day receptionist) of the monastery gives us more insight into the role of hospitality in daily life. 

From the outset, St. Benedict states that the person is to be a wise listener who knows how to provide a response to the guest.  In a world that is flooded with noise, chaos and confusion, having a person who can take the time just to listen and be with you can be a real treasure.  As our lives become more hectic and time to just be and think needs to be scheduled into my day planner knowing that a person is there to listen even for a few minutes can be refreshing.  Benedict goes on to say that this person also needs to be someone who can provide a response.  In this case, the response might not necessarily be an answer to a need or a problem but might even be an incisive question or a fresh perspective on the matter at hand.  Sometimes, even just presence and silence can be seen as a response.

The receptionist is also to be mature and stable--not wandering away from their station unnecessarily.  In our time of voice mail, texting, instant messaging, and automated responses, the human interaction of seeing another face or having a live person on the other end of the phone can be grounding.  It is always a pleasant surprise to me when I call someone and there is an actual person answering rather than a recorded message.  I know that I desire that human contact in my life.

What can I do to become that wise receptionist for others in my life?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Whose Feet Do You Wash?

What is the connection between monastic life, hospitality (RB ch58), the Sacred Triduum?

Monastic life is centered on seeing God's presence in the midst of the community. It's focus is mutual service in love for the good of the whole. It is reminiscent of the story in Genesis, in which Abraham greets the passing travelers and invites them to share in his spontaneous feast. In community we are invited to practice this type of hospitality in our daily encounters with those around us. We are challenged to find the face of God present in the needs of our sisters and brothers in need.

Hospitality calls me to open myself to the other and to whatever surprises might come from my daily encounters with others. I am presented with opportunities to open my heart wider in compassion for my neighbor. It is through hospitality that I can most clearly express my love and concern for God and neighbor and learn many life lessons. I am fortunate to have many teachers in this school of hospitality.

The Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday) is a school of hospitality. From the great feast with the disciples in the upper room to the glorious realization of the Resurrection, hospitality is the cord that unites us in faith. Jesus' example of service and love in the washing of the feet of the disciples is only the first of these lessons on hospitality. Jesus' total surrender on the Cross for the sins of all is the ultimate manifestation of this life of total love and outpouring of self.

As we experience these most holy days, may Jesus' example of self-giving love guide our path.

Blessed Triduum,
Sr. Catherine, OSB

Lectio As Work

Although I have little problem seeing the value of work--especially physical/manual labor--I would not consider myself an extremely hard or focused worker. I do not particularly like getting hot and sweaty. Although some might feel great after accomplishing some major physical project admiring their handiwork, I generally just tend to feel tired and hot. I am the type of worker that is ready to quit once I break my first fingernail or about the time I finish half of the project.

In Chapter 48 of the Rule of Benedict, he deals with daily work in community. I would expect to find in this chapter some strong rationale for manual labor. Reading the chapter, however, lectio is mentioned three times in the first 9 verses. It seems to be more of a schedule for lectio divina (which is a sense is our principle work) than it is a treatise on the value of physical labor. Most of the horarium is centered on the hours for community prayer. This realization gives a new perspective to the whole discussion about work.

In some contexts prayer has been called the work of God--the opus dei. How do I use my times of lectio and private prayer as a true work or ministry? Is my attitude toward this spiritual work tainted by my concept of physical work? How can I turn my prayer into a true work of God?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

In Memory of Sr. Cabrini Boland, OSB

Sister Mary Cabrini Boland entered eternal life on March 19, 2012. As her monastic community, we prayed with her and spoke to her during the days of her final illness. After her passing, we again gathered around her bed as a community and prayed, sang, cried and rejoiced as we entrusted her to God's care.

Many consider her one of the "giants" in our community...one of our spiritual giants, one of our giants in faith and in monastic life. Although her speech was sometimes labored, she often had wisdom to share with her words. Whenever there was a specially intention or need that required prayer attention, the request always came to her door. One could always be assured of her most fervent and sincere prayers. She will truly be greatly missed.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Sister Mary Cabrini Boland, OSB

January 31, 1920--March 19, 2012

Celebrating the Gift of Each

In Benedict's section on the proper amount of drink (Chapter 40), he starts out by stating that everyone has their own particular strength or gift. Everyone in life is challenged by something and everyone also has areas that are assets to who they are.

Since this is a universal phenomenon then, I need to find ways in which to celebrate the giftedness of others and to accentuate my strengths also. I don't need to be upset that I am not #1 in everything in life--much as I would like to believe that I am truly extraordinary in all areas. Part of my task is to find ways in which we can work together to make a stronger whole--whether in family, on a team, in the office, or in a community.

It is good to be able to stand back and genuinely appreciate the contribution that all make to the tapestry which is our life.

Blessed feast of St. Joseph to all. May God's blessing be with us as we continue our lenten journey.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Distribution of Goods

I am a person who seems to attract "stuff" everywhere I go. I am kind of like a stuff magnet...even though I might not intend on acquiring more paper, more books, more gadgets, etc. Stuff seems to accumulate around me no matter where I am. I am not even necessarily attached to things, things just seem to be a part of what I am about. (Most of the things that are around me actually are there for the purpose of my ministry or other duties.)

Today's reading, from Chapter 34 of the Rule of Benedict, is one that I have studied often. I am invited to ask myself what is really necessary in order for me to be able to function reasonably. Although I enjoy using the gadgets available to me, I need to remind myself that these are available to me because they often come with responsibilities and requirements. For example, while having a smart phone had some appeal, once I stop and realize all of the responsibilities attached to having the phone some of the shine and wonder of the phone begins to be tempered by reality.

Today's selection from Chapter 34 reminds me that the goods that are presented to me are available for the good of the whole group and for others. I need to remember that and thank God for the awareness necessary to keep material goods in proper perspective in life.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Relationship With Everyone

Relationships are an essential part of life. Since we all function in a communal setting of some sort throughout the day, our interactions with one another and with the world around us shape our daily lives.

Whether those I encounter daily are my classmates, my co-workers, my roommates, my fellow team members or my spouse, life does seem to be an experience of learning to relate to others. That is not always easy, even for those of us who actually thrive on being social and relationship almost 24/7. It is in interacting with those in my community that I am often challenged to grow (often in ways in which I would rather not). It is in this growth that I am invited to examine myself, my actions and my attitudes and often concede that there is space for change. I am not always right...and I don't need to be. I do not have to have things my way all the time in order for me and others to live peacefully.

Chapter 31 of the Rule of St. Benedict starts by listing the qualities that are necessary for the cellarer (the one responsible for all material goods in a monastery). Although the some of the essentials pertain to goods and the administration of material possessions, a large amount of emphasis is placed on how relationships are handled between the members of the community. The person who distributes the goods is not to be someone who upsets others on purpose either by delaying distribution of items or by being rude or abrupt in response to a request. The members of the group are not to try to upset one another on purpose.

This reminds me in my daily encounters to remember to be as gracious as possible no matter what the response of others might be. It is part of my role in relationships to try to help others to see God present in everyday life. I need to ask myself at the end of the day. How did I make God present in life today?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

The Leader's Assistants

In proposing the structure (order) for the community, St. Benedict requires that those who assist the leader in administration be someone who possesses: a good reputation, a holy life, and a degree of wisdom in teaching. In other words, the person in this role needs to be an example for the rest through life and teaching. This seems like a reasonable expectation.

Having been invited to accept various roles in community over the last 26 years, however, I am constantly humbled and awed by the fact that anyone would ever consider me to possess the potential for even minimal leadership...because I am well aware that whatever example I have given to others through my life it has not always been the one I would want others to follow.

I tend to see myself much more as human than holy. I have quirks and habits that often seem more like glaring neon signs rather than small flaws or minor blemishes of character. I've spent many years asking to either be relieved of these habits or at least for the grace to be able to diminish them to a more reasonable level. I try to capitalize on the positive qualities that I find within myself.

During these days of Lent, when I try to focus more intentionally on developing a more virtuous life, I pray for the grace necessary to bring to fruition my lenten resolutions.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Lenten Check Up

Two days into Lent and I am already looking for a way out! That can be considered a pretty sad statement on my spiritual journey or an acknowledgement that I still have plenty of areas to work on in life.

Since today is Friday it is designated as a day of silence throughout the house. That sounds like a good idea unless your ministry happens to require that you interact with our employees throughout the day. I need to remind myself that I need to leave my voice in my office--preferably at my chair. Today has been extra tricky since we have had workmen in the house, employees needing assistance, phone calls throughout the morning, and training on how to complete payroll correctly. It feels a little like trying to live two lives at once--me as a monastic and me in ministry.

Maybe I need to adjust my perspective so that I can focus on the growth rather than areas of deficiency. Given this attitude then the smile to the guest or the kind word to the co-worker can offset my sense of failure. It is the spirit of initial resolution that is of more consequence than the actual adherence to the exact letter of the resolution.

Wishing all a Lent filled with the joy and expectation of the great feast of Easter.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Lord, Have Mercy on Us

Today's selection from the Rule of St. Benedict (Chapter 17) invites us to look towards God and ask for mercy throughout the day. Chapter 17 is towards the end of Benedict's extensive section on the order of daily, community prayer. Three times during this chapter (vss 4, 5, 10), St. Benedict asks us to remember the reality and depth of God's compassion for us.

This call for God's mercy seems appropriate as we prepare for the great season of Lent. I am called throughout my day to visit those places in my life where I might not be as open to the experience of God's presence in life. There are many times (sometimes daily or hourly) when I need to have these reminders of my need for God in my daily encounters.

It is not an exaggeration to state that apart from God my accomplishments, successes or endeavors have very little value. It is only through God's grace that I am able to do and be who I am. In this awareness, I am sent out to show others that same forgiveness, love and mercy which I have so generously received from God.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Love of God Which Casts Out Fear

Chapter 7 of the Rule of Benedict finishes with the assertion that once all of the steps of humility have been reached then the person would live a life of good action out of a desire for virtue and love of God which casts out fear.

In the earlier stages on the ascent, the image is of a person who performs some right deeds not out of love for the good but out of fear of punishment and judgment by God. At this point, I might perform virtuous actions but mostly out of fear of incurring the consequence of my bad deeds (not out of virtue). After going through the 12 steps of humility and putting them into practice (somewhat), I now find that I actually look for opportunities to be virtuous, out of my awareness of God's presence and love in my life. Now I live a life of virtue for the sake of the good. My previous discipline has started to pay off.

This sounds like an ideal. Since I will never outgrow the steps of humility, how can I maintain this desire to do the good out of an awareness of God in my life?

• Develop the habit of keeping connected to God throughout the day. Practicing the Jesus Prayer. Having short conversations with God at odd times during the day.


• Remaining committed to daily examination of conscience (at end of day) and morning offering of day.


• Watching my thoughts as they arise so that I can better direct my day towards God.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Speaking Gently

In Chapter 7 of the Rule of St. Benedict, restraint of speech is mentioned four times. Why would speech be an important aspect in the process of humility?

I am a talker. There are not many times when I am found with little to say. Actually, speaking is probably one of the things that gets me in trouble the most in life.

In trying to determine where the connection between speech and humility lies, I am reminded of a comment that was often shared with me about speech when I was younger. Others often commented that when I command the stage by sharing my thoughts about everything it gives little opportunity for me to learn from the experience of others. In a sense, if I am constantly speaking but never really listening, I am both depriving myself of hearing a new perspective and cheating the other person of a chance to share part of their wisdom. I need to remember that I am not expected to have the answer to all of life's issues and questions.

I pray today for the grace needed to be a good listener in life.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Consent and Constraint

Following my own will, my wishes, my personal desires can lead me down the wrong path. Experience has proven this fact time after time, yet it seems to be one of those life lessons that I can not quite embrace gracefully.

I find that when I start dictating how life needs to be or start placing boundaries on what is acceptable, I am actually closing myself off from opportunities for potential growth and insight.

When I can open myself to the possibilities offered, I find that surprising gifts and graces are in store for my life. All I need to do is let go of my thoughts of how "things ought to be" and step into the process with faith.

I pray for the ability to be present to God's voice in my life.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Whole-Hearted Obedience

In the Latin text of the Rule of St. Benedict, today's selection from Chapter 5--On Obedience contains three words that caught my attention: trepide (fearfully), tarde (slowly), tepide (half-hearted). Each of these words is preceded by the word non, implying that these words should not describe the monastics obedience. A person is not to obey with fear, hestitation or half-heartedly. This is a life that calls for full commitment.

These words have always caught my attention since I would like to believe that in most cases I do face life without undue fear, slowness or a partial commitment. I strive to be fully invested in life--at least when I am my best self.

What are those things that stop me from this goal? What are the challenges that crop up for me that cause me to pause and lose my way?

I find for myself that whenever I lose sight of my values or begin to think that I have it all together--it is time to start becoming concerned because I have actually lost everything. I need to remember to set aside time daily to just be and refocus so that I can continue on the journey whole-heartedly, full of life.

Sr. Catherine, OSB

The Way to Life

See how the Lord in his love shows us the way of life. RB80.Prol. 20

The way of life...the way to life...the secret of a happy fulfilled life.

Seeking life seems to be an age-old quest. There are stories and legends of heroic journeys in search for the key to life--the answer to what gives purpose to one's life. I have been a life-long seeker myself...always searching for that something that would make life complete.

In the time of our desert ancestors, young monastics would travel days to reach an elder who would impart a word to them--some secret piece of wisdom that would carry them for their journey.

Who are our wisdom figures today? What can I do to bring a word of life or encouragement to someone else on the road?

Sr. Catherine, OSB

Run in the Light

Benedict does not seem to be a fan of half-hearted commitments. He poses the image of running four times in the Prologue of the Rule. In the first three instances it is an image for fleeing something--the darkness (of sin and self-will) [v 13], former deeds [v 22], waiting too long to change [v 44]. The fourth reference to running [v 49] has us impelled by the power of the unspeakable sweetness of the delight of love. It seems to imply that before I am ready to fully accept God's love in my life, I must first turn away from some of my current tendencies and preferences. In a sense, it is an invitation to prepare the soil of my life by practicing running from what is not of God so that when God's true presence does appear not only am I ready to accept it joyfully but there is also space in my life for it.

At the beginning of this new year, I am invited to look at my current life and see what adjustments are necessary to be more open to God's presence daily. This is not a quick plan to lose 20 pounds in 3 months or to declutter a little to simplify my life for a day or two but a life-long plan of action.

What am I willing to revise today to make more space for God in my life?

Sr. Catherine, OSB