Nuns

Today I visited the Benedictine Community of St Mary at the Cross in Edgware. It was a wonderful experience and I came back feel rested and peaceful.

It was not so much a Quiet Day as a "educational" visit. We were looked after by Sister (Dame, properly) Barbara who this year celebrates her fiftieth anniversary of profession, which must make her at least 70. However, she was wonderfully bright and humorous and had a really outgoing spirit. She told us of the history of the community, of its current work and the life of a nun. We joined the sisters for Midday prayer and then celebrated the Eucharist. The convent has such an atmosphere of prayer that one couldn't help but feel the peace of the place. I felt like I had been on retreat for several days when I got back.

Sadly, only three of the nuns are now active enough to play a full part in the Community and to attend the Offices but the work of the sisters is ongoing and the convent is otherwise in good health. I was sincerely impressed and inspired by the place and hope and pray that more women will be inspired by the Holy Spirit to consider a vocation to the Religious life.

Lord our God,
in your great love you draw all people to your Son:
and in wisdom you call us to your service.
At this time kindle in the hearts of men and women
the desire to follow you in the Religious Life.
Give to those whom you call,
grace to accept their vocation readily and thankfully,
to make the whole-hearted surrender which you ask of them,
and for love of you, to persevere to the end,
grant this through Christ our Lord.
Amen .