Dear Inquirer,
Hello! I’m Janna. I went to Vision Vocation Match’s website and took their Vocation Match quiz. By God’s divine providence, St. Mary Monastery came up as a first match.
I was anxious, but fervently prayed and took the first step: I contacted Sister Stefanie.
She invited me to visit. I am writing to share this experience with you.
As I entered the monastery, I thought of the philosopher Lao Tzu’s quote: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” I had taken the first step by deciding to come. Now, I was opening the doors to surrender.
The Sisters went out of their way to welcome me into their sanctuary: their home.
The Sisters shared their stories of how they took their first steps, how they found their home at St. Mary Monastery.
They listened to me as I shared my own story.
We shared more conversation, later, at a bonfire outside.
One of my favorite experiences was meeting the Sisters in healthcare. What a true measure of Benedictine Hospitality when I saw that ALL Sisters were welcomed and involved in Community activities!
Today, I am continuing my discernment with the Benedictines. I even spent Christmas with them!
As one who knows how hard it can be to take that first step, let me invite you to open the doors for yourself.
God is waiting. By opening these doors, I have received a profound sense of peace. I don’t know where my journey will lead, but the fact that I am answering God’s call to inquire gives me that peace!
I am praying that you, too, will find peace by formally answering the call to inquire.
Contact Sister Stefanie for more information: smacdonald@smmsisters.org or (309) 236-0955.
Blessings and Peace,
Janna
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