It was a very difficult and bleak winter in rural Nebraska. The snowfall and temperatures have been record-breaking. It is the stuff of rural folklore: drifts like mountains, winter winds like tornadoes.
As the sunlight increases and spring approaches, we have an opportunity to look back on the events of the stressful winter season. I am mindful that all good things incubate in darkness.
Although there were hardships, we are hardy and growth happens.
Here's the recap:
Sr. Pia Portmann, OSB was elected and installed as the new prioress. Former prioress, Sr. Kevin Hermsen, OSB is now on a well deserved sabbatical. I was interviewed on Catholic Radio KVSS about programs offered to the rural area by the Spirituality Center, and Sr. Carole Ann did a wonderful presentation on contemplative prayer to the women of the First Congregational Church in Sioux City. All of our bibles studies have been very well attended.
Archbishop George J. Lucas was all set to attend the Anti-Pornography Conference here that was organized by the Archdiocese of Omaha; but that conference was cancelled at the last minute due to hazardous weather. Our first book club was a rousing success, and Novice Gina is now interested in Canon Law after the workshop on that topic offered by Fr. Michael Gutgsell, pastor of St. Cecilia Cathedral in Omaha. We anxious await the 7th annual Lenten retreat for elders that will be held here on March 25th by the beloved Fr. Jim Kramper of Ewing, Clearwater & Rural St. Johns. So, all in all, the Monastery is busy and the Spirituality Center is growing....despite the difficulties of a long winter.
As Dag Hammarskjold says, "For all that has been, thanks! For all that will be, yes!"
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