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What Inspired Me to Become A Benedictine Sister

Living Ordinary Life with Extraordinary Love” has been the theme of the lay women and men who have been associated with Sacred Heart Monastery since 2003. We began our journey as “Associates” and in the fall of 2006, we will enter into an Oblate program. I am most humbled to be a part of this monastery’s Oblate program. I feel the warmth and love of the Sisters each time I come to help with tasks in the monastery. Living according to the Rule of St. Benedict, means approaching each hour of the day, and each task of that hour as a gift from God. This helps me appreciate this wonderful world and each person in it. I hope that by being a part of the Oblate program, I will learn to integrate Benedict’s way of love and peace and share it with my family and community."
Jane Doyle, Oblate
 

"As a nurse, I have always wanted to help people not only physically but also spiritually. A few years ago, I was looking around to do volunteer work when I met a Benedictine Sister in the hospital who invited me to the monastery. When I came, the Sisters were so loving toward me and later, they asked if I would like to be an associate (now called “oblate”). “Of course, I would”, I said. Now, I am part of the oblate group and am learning so much about Benedictine life. I have learned to reflect on spiritual things and this is helping me to keep God’s goodness on my mind everywhere I go; whether at home, in my work or with my friends. Living as an Oblate is giving me a deep, inner peace."
María Murphy, Oblate
 

"I am a daughter, wife, mother and a child of God. God is the center of my life. In my prayer, I have always asked God what it is that I am to do. Now, with .my association with the Benedictine Order I am receiving direction and balance as the Spirit of God leads me to people who need help. This life as an Oblate has provided me with peace like no other. I look forward to many more enriching years as a Benedictine Oblate."
Carole Gravelle, Oblate

"Accepting the invitation to be a Benedictine Oblate at Sacred Heart Monastery has special meaning in my life. The Benedictine sisters, who taught me in elementary school, served as exceptional role models not to be forgotten in later years. Reading about St. Benedict and his Rule has instilled in me a desire to follow his example of leading a God-filled life. I am encouraged to do spiritual reading and “listen with the ear” of my heart to the voice of God within me. Sharing in evening Vespers at the Monastery is to experience a feeling of peace and joy. Setting aside a portion of the day for prayer can be compatible with a lay person’s daily responsibilities. This relationship with the Benedictine Monastery has increased my faith awareness and a desire to share with family members, neighbors and acquaintances the recognition of the presence of God in our lives. Learning about the Benedictine Rule has been very inspiring to me.  I didn’t know how simple and loving it could be.  Joining the Sisters in prayer is wonderful.  Volunteering at the monastery is very rewarding, with love, prayers and thanks from the Sisters and residents and staff of Villa St. Benedict.  I feel like I have extended my family manifold."
Emily Szezspaniak, Oblate
 

"Accepting the invitation to be a Benedictine Oblate at the Sacred Heart Monastery has special meaning in my life.  The Benedictine Sisters, who taught me in Elementary School, served as exceptional role models not to be forgotten in later years.  Reading about Saint Benedict and his Rule has instilled in me a desire to follow his example of leading a God-filled life.  I am encouraged to do spiritual reading and “listen with the ear of my heart” to the voice of God within me.  Sharing in evening Vespers at the Monastery is to experience a feeling of peace and joy.  Setting aside a portion of the day for prayer can be very compatible with a lay person’s daily responsibilities.  This relationship with the Benedictine Sisters and Oblates has increased my faith awareness and a desire to share with family members, neighbors and acquaintances the recognition of the presence of God in our lives."
Arlene Malloy, Oblate
 

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