Discernment and Chapter of Election

     Electricity is in the air of the monastery as we prepare for the chapter of election.We are approaching   a very holy time.The chapter of election for the prioress to lead us for the next four years is our version of the conclave to elect the Pope. But there is a major difference in that our chapter includes all the members in the discernment and voting. All of the sisters living at a distance will be at the monastery for this blessed event.  That in itself brings joy and excitement. We have spent the last month offering special prayers for each other and as we come to the end of the list the anticipation grows.

      As you may know “Listen” is the first word of the Holy Rule of St. Benedict. We have been preparing ourselves to listen intently to our hearts and to the Holy Spirit speaking through each one of us. This discernment captures the spirit of our obedience to one another as we actively listen and respond. We truly believe each of us has a piece of the wisdom. No one comes into the process to “win” but the entire community “wins” because the voice of the Spirit has been heard. In the prayerful silence of our hearts we are open to pray, to hear, to speak, to let go and ultimately to hear and respond to the will of God as expressed at this time and in this community.

     I ask for your prayers and thank you for your prayerful participation in this holy event.

            Sr. Mary Rabe, OSB