Dear friend in Christ,

We are truly in the depths of winter here in Minnesota, but Lent is nearly with us. Lent means "spring" in Anglo-Saxon, so let's hope it's going to bring some green shoots of hope with it.

Many people approach Lent with some hesitation because of its association with fasting and the idea that it has to be a rather miserable time. I like to think of it as an opportunity to reflect on how I'm living and clear away some of the old, dead wood which collects along my path to God. That might mean getting rid of possessions which are superfluous to my needs or doing some interior cleaning. Are my opinions based on fact or prejudice? Am I too critical of others? How can I become a more loving person? Do I spend enough time tending to my relationship with God?

Every year, one of our Lenten activities as a community is hosting the Nun Banquet (read more below). This year, it's on Friday, March 15, from 4:30 7 p.m. The monastery gift shop and museum will stay open until 7 p.m. on that date. We invite you to spend some time visiting the amazing needlework exhibit in the museum and browsing in the gift shop, which stocks many unusual items, some handmade by sisters.

Finally, I had a request to supply a link to the blog I'm writing as I approach my tenth anniversary of profession. Read it here!

May this coming Lent be filled with hope as we prepare for the joy of Easter!


Peace be with you,