Clarity in the Cloud of Confusion
By S. Annie Klapheke
The Gospels are wrought with emotion. The followers of Jesus, especially, probably felt as though they were constantly on an emotional roller coaster. Discernment can often feel the same way – ups and downs, clarity and confusion, consolation and desolation. The story of the Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36) is a good snapshot of the disciples’ emotional roller coaster, and also mirrors stages of discernment.

At the invitation of Jesus, Peter, James and John take some time away to pray. As Jesus’ appearance changes and he begins conversing with Moses and Elijah, we hear that the disciples become “fully awake.” In your discernment journey, can you recall a moment that jolted you to attention and caused you to become “fully awake” to a potential call from God? Peter then began to speak (not even knowing what he was saying!): “Master, it is good that we are here, let us make three tents.” Have you shared your discernment with family, friends or a spiritual director, and thought as you heard yourself speaking, ‘What am I saying?’ Yet, just like Peter, you know that your words are rooted in a very real experience. At this point in the Transfiguration story, the apostles experience such clarity and light, but as quickly as clarity comes, it goes. Suddenly the cloud of confusion surrounds them. Have you experienced this sudden shift in certainty in your own discernment? Clarity and consolation suddenly become clouded with doubt and confusion? But notice in the story, it is in the cloud and the moment of confusion that God speaks, “This is my chosen Son; listen to him.” 

There is nothing wrong with experiencing a roller coaster of emotions in discernment; in fact, it is quite normal. Do not dismiss the times of confusion as worthless or wasted time. It is in these moments that God may speak. Perhaps, most importantly, in the Transfiguration story we notice that Jesus is with the disciples through every step of the journey: going up the mountain, in the clarity and the confusion, and coming back down the mountain. And so it is with the discernment journey; Jesus’ companionship is constant. Stay there with Jesus, through the clarity and the confusion, and trust that God’s voice will be heard. 
Future of Charity Blog: Lord, Teach Us to Pray
In the wake of numerous mass shootings and acts of violence rooted in hate, S. Kara Davis, DC, reminds us it is more important than ever to turn to God in prayer. Read more at
Sister of Charity of Cincinnati Whitney Schieltz Professes First Vows
Congratulations to Sister of Charity of Cincinnati Whitney Schieltz, who pronounced First Vows during a ceremony Aug. 24, 2019, in the Immaculate Conception Chapel at the Mount St. Joseph Motherhouse. During the liturgy Whitney committed herself for three years to the service of God, God’s people, and all of Creation as a member of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. She promised “to live in community and vow to God poverty, consecrated celibacy and obedience according to the Constitutions of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati.” Read more at www.srcharitycinti.org/2019/08/27/schieltz-professes-first-vows/
God In All Things
Looking for a new resource to deepen your spiritual life? With posts, podcasts and audio meditations rooted in the Ignatian tradition, the blog, God In All Things , tries to tackle everyday questions about God, discernment and decision-making. It all begins by being attentive to how God permeates the moments of our exciting and mundane life! Visit it at https://godinallthings.com/ .
Vocation in Avocation: Pottery
S. Jackie Kowalski uses pottery to connect with others for the sake of mental health and to instill in them an appreciation for all of creation. Read more at https://www.srcharitycinti.org/2019/08/14/pottery/.
Calendar
September 1, 2019
World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation
 
September 15, 2019
Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows
 
September 13-14, 2019
Fall Congregational Days, Motherhouse
 
September 27, 2019
Feast Day of St. Vincent de Paul

September 27-28, 2019
Fall Congregational Days, Motherhouse
 
September 29, 2019
World Day of Migrants and Refugees
Community members living near the U.S./Mexico border attended a Community Memorial Service in August to unite in support for those injured and to mourn those who lost their lives during the El Paso mass shooting.
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