VOLUME 55, NUMBER 4 / 3190 BENET LANE, COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO 80921-1509 / Fall 2017

-Redpath

In 1956, I began to photograph a great deal as I biked through Europe. By the time I engaged in graduate work studying art at Arizona State University, I became a more serious photographer with an increased interest in exploring creative techniques.

In deepest sympathy we remember our dear sisters and their families who have lost loved ones.

Sister Josie Sanchez, OSB for the loss of her of her grandnephew,

Frankie Leybaand her nephew (Frankie’s dad),

Lee Leyba.

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Message from Prioress By Sister Clare Carr, OSB, Prioress

Another example of Sister Charlotte’s work using the same

technique.

Dear Friends and Families,

Recently, a woman once active in church ministry asked me, “How do the sisters find a ministry after they have retired?” I began to think, “How does one find meaning in retirement? What does vocation mean? When do we know we are serving God? When do we know that we are of service and ministering?”

Vocation is rooted in the Latin word vocare; “a summons, a strong inclination, a person’s employment, a special function” (Webster). ‘Summons’ is an action. In my early years, it meant finding purpose in my work. My work was teaching others about God. My success was entirely up to me and I identified my worth in what I did. It very much involved my ego. But my perspective has changed, and today I see a ‘summons’ as a way to ‘be’- a way of ‘being’ in the world.

“Listen and attend with the ear of your heart.” -St. Benedict

This is a call for me to be in the presence of God, by listening to God’s voice in the silence, in nature, in others and through events. It is an intentional choice to be in silence. It demands the discipline of making time for solitude and quiet. It is a ‘summons’ to go deeper and remove myself from the frenzy of doing. It is a ‘summons’ to fall more deeply in love with our Creator, our Lover, our Lord, our communities, our families, our spouse and ourselves. It is not easy. I am letting go of my ego and being in silence instead of valuing myself by what I produce.

Blessings,

One Minute Wisdom

I want to be with God in prayer.What you want is an absurdity.

Why?Because wherever you are,

God is not; Wherever God is, you are not.

So how could you be with God?

Later the Master said:Seek Aloneness.

When you are with someone else, you are not alone.

When you are ‘with God,’ you are not alone.

The only way to really be withGod is to be utterly alone.

Then, hopefully, God will be and you will not.

-By Anthony De Mello

Sister Charlotte Redpath, OSB has taught art at the secondary, university and adult education levels and has conducted numerous teacher workshops. She was employed as a fine arts specialist with the U.S. Department of the Interior. Sister Charlotte has worked as a free- lance artist since 1973 and as a psychotherapist and spiritual director.

Cover ArtBy Sister Charlotte Redpath, OSB

The cover photograph is an example of one of those techniques. I took the photo using a Polaroid camera. As it was developing, I manipulated the fluid with dental tools to create a photo that looked more like a painting. I had to work fast as the fluid develops quickly. The result is a new and unique way of seeing Buena Vista, Colorado on the road to Cottonwood Pass.

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T hree Nuns from the Ranch

Upper Right Photo: Outside the women’s church convent church in Glendalough, Ireland is a burial ground for children who died without baptism. This very sacred and spirit-filled place is where visitors leave the cross of St. Brigid. (St. Brigid’s cross is shown in the upper right near the hollowed bowl formed in the rock.)In this remote church we prayed for the women who most influenced our lives. I found myself praying for our Sister Leann Cogan in thanksgiving for her life and for teaching me to let go of life with profound grace.

Pilgrimage to Ireland By Sister Clare Carr, OSB, Prioress

Compiled By Gina Berger, Communications Director

L to R: (standing) Sister Clare Carr, OSB, Prioress; Karen Brock, Liz Mrofka; Aimee and Jim Farrell. L to R: (sitting) Sisters Elizabeth Cogan, and Kathleen Cogan, Author

It’s a wonderful thing when someone let’s us have a glimpse of their life. We can learn and laugh and feel connected. I feel so honored to have been a part in helping Sister Kathleen bring her and her family’s story to life. It’s so exciting to have been able to get it to be a #1 Hot New Release on Amazon! I hope that it helps others discover the book so that they too can enjoy reading about their life’s journey. -Liz Mrofka, Front & Back Cover, Book Formatting, Publisher

The Sisters of Benet Hill Monastery announced the publishing of “Three Nuns from the Ranch” written by Sister Kathleen Cogan, OSB on October 3. 2017. We had several book signing events at Benet Hill Monastery. The book is available on amazon.smile.com or amazon.com or through Benet Gifts at the monastery.

Sisters Kathleen Cogan and Elizabeth Cogan had no idea how to turn these collected stories into a book. Sister Kathleen first shared her stories with Aimee Farrell, “I have always been a big fan of the Cogan stories. I love hearing how Sister Leann caught a cow with her fishing rod andhow Sister Kathleen pulled down the front porch. You’ll have to read more about that story in the book!” Aimee shared some of the stories with her friend, Karen (editor and publisher). Karen became interested and grew very fond of the sisters. She visited the monastery to talk with them as they began the project. Karen brought her friend, Liz (publisher, book formatting, front & back cover) along for the ride. And a book was born!

My recent pilgrimage to Ireland was very holy and restored me to “wholeness”. The whole country is beautiful and it is difficult to pinpoint a place or event that impacted me the most. I was, however, very touched by the story of the Great Famine in the mid-1800’s. During a 4-5 year period, Ireland was devastated with the loss of half the population because of death and a mass exodus. What disturbs me the most about this story is knowing Ireland had enough food for everyone; however, Queen Victoria of England required food to be exported, leaving thousands of Irish to starve. Today, we still witness violence and evil through the callous use of power to oppress and to abuse based on religion, country of origin, and so many other reasons.

It’s been a pleasure, and I think a privilege, too, to read about the lives of Sister Kathleen and her family. Perhaps because I also feel God most strongly in the beauty of wild places, perhaps because I grew up on a farm in a large family, but I have loved reading this book and feel such a joy and peace in the kind of life the sisters have led. And every time, even though I’ve read it several times now, I laugh out loud at some of the stories. Well done all! -Karen Brock, Editor and Publisher

Photo on the front cover of the book: L to R: Sisters Elizabeth Cogan, Leann Cogan and Kathleen Cogan

One of the most amazing generous gifts is the time, work and love Karen and Liz gave to this project all in gratis. Thank you so much!

Photo to the Left: A plaque on the stone wall marks where thousands were buried in unmarked graves due to the great famine. The gate depicts many souls who were buried without names.

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L to R: Sister Clare Carr, OSB, Prioress, Bishop Emeritus Richard Hanifen and Sister Marilyn Carpenter, OSB

“In continued response to my baptismal call to Gospel holiness, I reaffirm the commitment I made sixty years ago. I once again (Benedict says begin again each day) vow fidelity to the

Monastic Way of Life…

…with the perseverance of Scholastica and the courage of Hildegard, I also promise to continue my ministry to be a voice

for the voiceless, especially women…

…In the name of God our Creator, of Jesus who became The Christ, and of their Holy Spirit who continues

to dwell in our midst. Amen.

““People with the strongest and healthiest sense of calling are not

obsessed with their calling. They are preoccupied with the Caller.”

- John Ortberg

By Sister Mary Colleen Schwarz, OSB, Vocation Director

Vocations: Inward & Outward’ Joy & Peace

Sister Marilyn Carpenter Celebrates her 60th Jubilee

The Beatitudes, recorded in the Gospels of Matthew (5:1-10) and Luke (6:20-23), are Jesus’ invitation to a way of living that brings true happiness, peace and joy. The Beatitudes call us to a radically new way of being where we center our lives on God and allow ourselves to become transformed. This transformation creates within us true happiness and deep joy as we discover our identity in our relationship with God. We discover a true inner peace in this relationship.

Through the Beatitudes, Jesus calls us to become whole and complete- finding our true selves, the person that God intends us to be. God gives us the ability to see what needs to be transformed and to find God’s help in that transformation. This leads us to peace and a joy experienced here and now-in knowing Christ’s Living Presence to be peacemakers, to bring reconciliation, to seek out opportunities for mercy and compassion and to pursue justice and righteousness. We live the Beatitudes where we are right now, one day at a time, one leading at a time, and one action at a time.

In these painful times across the globe, we learn to redefine our attachments. We learn not to rely on our culture’s definition of identity: wealth, status, possessions, and even other people. All of these can be taken from us and we learn that God alone is the only enduring one. We find our true selves in our relationship with God. It is the mark of our vocation in life. Let us ponder together how to become more a part of God’s way of being and doing in our daily lives.

My 60th Jubilee was a great day of song, dance and sharing with family and friends. I was blessed with the attendance of many friends representing my ministries over the years. They included a classmate from Atchison, Kansas, a student and president of our PTA from my very first teaching mission at St. Cajetan’s in Denver, students from Benet Hill Academy, oblates, family members, parents from my 17 years of grief support groups for infant death, former co-workers from Colorado Springs, Canon City and Denver and current co-workers. I also had fresh wheat from our family farm in Kansas as part of the Liturgical environment.

In all of my missions and ministries, I intentionally promoted our Benedictine values and reminded people that Benedictines have for 1500+ years lived on the edge of our church’s liturgical life. As Sister Joan Chittister reminds us, “If you are not living on the edge, you are taking up too much room.”

With a theme of gratitude for each and every one of the 60 years, I look forward to many more years of “Dancing Into My/Our Future with Hope!”

By Sister Marilyn Carpenter, OSB

Sister Marilyn Carpenter, OSB60th Jubilee, August 20, 2017

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“I feel that I have just been out on mission all these years.” With these words, I started my journey back to Benet Hill Monastery in October 2015.

I recently attended the BSWR (Benedictine Spiritual Workshop and Retreat) at Annunciation Monastery in Bismarck, North Dakota. The purpose of the BSWR is to prepare sisters in initial formation to enter into deeper discernment and in preparation for perpetual monastic profession.

We were a diverse group of women from around the nation and ranged in age from the late twenties to the early sixties. We share a common goal: to discern what God asks of us at this stage of our formation. There was a strong emphasis on solitude and contemplation, as well as talks on The Rule of Benedict and the monastic values.

It was also a chance to reconnect with sisters I met at the Novice and Directors Institute and through the T4 Program (Wisdom Connections: Timeless Tradition—Technological Times). Along with all the sisters of BSWR 2017, I am “Hastening On In Hope”.

Sister Deb Kuhl, OSB Returns “Home””

“Everybody has a vocation to some form of life-work. However, behind that call

(and deeper than any call), everybody has a vocation to be a person to be fully and

deeply human in Christ Jesus.” -Brennan Manning

Benedictine Spiritual Workshop & Retreat

By Sister Margaret Meaney, OSB

By Sister Deb Kuhl, OSB

L to R: Sisters Jan Ginzkey, Deb Kuhl and Clare Carr. Sisters Jan and Clare were classmates with

Deb when they first became novices at Benet Hill Monastery many years ago. This photo was

taken July 30, 2017 at Sister Deb’s First Profession.

Sister Anne Stedman, OSB; Formation Director journeyed with Sister Deb Kuhl.

Springs, CO; Pat Witulski, Benedictine Sisters of Erie, Erie PA; Judith Timmerman, St. Scholastica Monastery, Fort Smith, AR; Nina Lasceski, St. Benedicts Monastery, St. Joseph, MN; Nancy Miller Annunciation Monastery, Bismarck, ND. Seated L to R: Sisters Agatha Muggli, Director from Annunciation Monastery, Bismarck, ND; Rachel Geracitano Monastery of the Immaculate Conception, Ferdinand, IN; Peggy Venteicher ,Sacred Heart Monastery, Yankton, SD

Standing L to R: Sisters Teresa Jackson Director from Monastery of St. Gertrude, Cottonwood ID; Michelle St. Marie, Sacred Heart Monastery, Cullman, AL; Michaela Marie Boucaud, St. Scholastica Monastery, Fort Smith, AR; Kathleen Del Monte St. Scholastica Monastery, Duluth, MN; Margaret Meaney, Benet Hill Monastery, Colorado

I was not very successful in my time away from Benet Hill. In fact, I struggled to ‘fit in’ again and again. l felt I was always a stranger in a strange land: perhaps my Benedictine values made me ‘strange’. I was called to listen with the ear of my heart and to do justice in a small, daily kind of way.

And then the ‘call’ came again. I knew I needed to renew and deepen my relationship with my God and I longed to return to Benet Hill Monastery. God did not say, ‘where have you been?’ But rather God said, ‘ I have missed you.’ And my sisters said, “Welcome, the door is open.”

On July 30th of this year, I celebrated my ‘first’ profession with Benet Hill community, again. This was a homecoming for me, and the joy I felt was immense. I spoke about putting on the mind and heart of Jesus as I asked to “once again join my life with my sisters of Benet Hill community as we journey together into the heart of God.” I believe I finally came home from “mission’”.

Vocation is about “a call” (vocare, in Latin). I believe God’s call into a loving relationship with him is for all and is for a lifetime. I felt this call as a young child, eventually finding my way to Benet Hill Priory in 1972. As I entered this Benedictine community in 1974, I began to be formed with strong and enduring values and a way of life. I professed final vows in 1982. Those vows were, in a sense, wrapped around the call to be God’s beloved, and sealed indelibly into my heart forever. I saw myself as Benedictine for life.

In 1990, the “call’ took an unexpected turn. I needed to leave community to work through some challenges that I had uncovered in me. Even my belief in God went ‘underground’ for a time. But I still carried those Benedictine values embedded in my heart.

The values that I carried most closely in my heart were from the Rule of St. Benedict and the Benedictine document: Of All Good Gifts. St. Benedict urges us to “Listen with the ear of your heart.” And Of All Good Gifts teaches us to do justice.

Listening with the ear of my heart was about activating my heart center: to be aware and awake to the call - welcoming others into my heart with love

and acceptance. To do justice was about re-membering or putting back together those who have been broken by life.

I would look for employment that could keep my heart alive in a stone- cold world. I would look for the people with hearts that I could partner with in the workplace. I would look for service that could help to mend some of those who had been broken.

The people who most helped me keep my heart alive were homeless folks living with mental illness and addictions. I was called to walk with them as their case manager. I helped them find housing, get their meds, learn to stay sober and start their lives over. I listened to them tell their story. I now believe this was my reason for leaving Benet Hill for a time. I was called to be for these few folks because they had no one else. To love them yes, but also to let them love me. They helped to heal my broken places.

Global Online ~ T hank You

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Dear Sister Mary Colleen & Mary Ann,

Today is my first day of seminary. The Benet Hill Global Online Program started me on an amazing adventure and now I am headed for a Masters of Divinty and ordination to the priesthood in the Episcopal Church. Throughout my discernment process these past two years I have often talked about Benet Hill and how the program formed and changed me.

Global Online Graduate Ministers in Kenya

T he Call to Service Continuously Moves out into the World

Sisters Peace Team (L to R.) Giang Nguyen, Sia Temu and Teresa Hougnon. (S. Sprague/Kenya)

We three Maryknoll sisters—Sia Temu, Giang Nguyen and Teresa Hougnon—feel blessed to play a small part in responding to one nation’s urgent need for peace. Since 2006, when we formed the Maryknoll Sisters Peace Team in Kenya, we have been facilitating and sharing in communities that are seeking peace, reconciliation and healing. We have witnessed people transform their lives, heal their wounds and choose nonviolent responses, all by talking to each other.

Kenya is home to 46 ethnic groups that have experienced violence every election year since multiparty politics was introduced in 1992. Citizens divided along ethnic lines became further divided with ethnicity as the basis for political parties. Ethnic leaders drummed up support by creating chaos and conflict among their followers. Our team, with Kenyan facilitators, began working to bring together Kenyans of diverse ethnic backgrounds—victims and perpetrators alike—to have conversations with each other. By sharing their own experiences and listening to others, participants come to know one another as human beings, not as the “enemy.”

The northwest town of Molo was one of the areas that suffered the most violence following the election of 2007/2008 in which 1,500 people were killed and some 300,000 displaced. Many were suffering from deep psychological wounds and seeking revenge when they joined one of our conversation groups of 14 people. We began with five minutes of silence, which was new for most of them and uncomfortable at first.

Then we invited each person to share briefly from his/her life experience. Many spoke of loss, anger and despair because of the violence. As each person spoke for five minutes or less, everyone else listened. “When I heard the others express their anger,” one woman said, “I also was able to express mine, and it was no longer trapped in my heart.“

Continued Online.For the entire story, please go to the link provided.https://maryknollmagazine.org/2017/09/promote-peace-kenya-elections/

My participation in the Global Online Benedictine Spiritual Formation Program came at a time in my ministry that was most helpful. Our work of creating space for communities who have experienced conflict and violence was affirmed and reflected in the lessons I was learning and sharing online. It was particularly helpful as I began the Global Online Program at the same time we began one of our most challenging experiences in 2013-2014. Being able to reach out to others online and reflect on what was happening in Kenya was a personal blessing for me.

-Sister Teresa Hougnon, Global Online Graduate 2015 (pictured far right in the photo below)

Special Permission to reprint the following article and accompanying image by Maryknoll Magazine.

Conversations for PEACEThree Maryknoll sisters give Kenyans time and space to heal from violent conflicts

By Teresa Hougnon. M.M. and Giang Nguyen. M.M.

I am sending this picture because I wanted you to see that I am wearing the necklace you gave us at graduation from the program. I carry you with me today and the spirit of Benet Hill Monastery.

Many thanks and blessings,-Mary Haggerty,Global Online Graduate 2017

I just have to say THANK YOU. Global Online has helped me grow and stretch in so many ways that I am able to be with people in different ways than before. This program should be a requirement for ALL seminarians. I have learned more about pastoral care through BSFP than my seminary classes. When I am in a conversation with people

who are struggling, we are able to find ways to see God even in the ‘mud.’ People want to have the real conversations about God.

I recently had one of those days when many people I was listening to really needed to hear how God is still active in their lives. Afterwards I was so grateful, I wanted to thank you all for what you do, and how you have given me space to grow.

Thank you,-Lisa MesingerGlobal Online Graduate 2017

Sunflower

Sunflower standsIn the choir gazing towardBright morning prayer

-Joan Zishka, osb Oblate

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Attending a reunion with other alumnae from Benet Hill Academy is an experience I will always treasure; and reconnecting with many friends from years ago was especially rewarding.

Benet Hill will always hold a special place in my heart, for it was there I learned the value of friendship, faith and education. I also learned perseverance and the power of holding high expectations for myself as well as for others. The Sisters of Benet Hill taught us to believe in one another, accept one another and celebrate each person for her unique qualities. The foundation of my daily faith is rooted in Benet Hill. I also developed a profound sense of hope that continues to sustain me each day.

By Nancy Severin, osb Oblate

Thank you for the warmth and goodwill I was shown at this year’s event. Although I was only with you at Benet Hill Academy for one year, I was welcomed to the reunion luncheon with open hearts and arms. The afternoon was especially poignant for me, returning to the fellowship and support that was a hallmark of the school, after five decades. My life is rich and full. I cannot say “thank you” enough for helping me find my strengths and my weaknesses, and instilling in me the confidence to make myself into the best “me” I can be. You have always been with me. -Jane Anne Strieby Pateron, Class of ‘67

My Call to To Become an Oblate

It is a challenge to put God’s call to my heart into words. It involves mystery and intentionally returning to a place of essence within myself. God is persistent and seeks our attention from our beginning and it may take many years before some of us awaken. Once you respond “Here am I”, there is no turning back. That has been the case for me. I seek to understand many unanswerable questions, the meaning and purpose of my life, and the common thread that leads me closer to God. In the beginning, I thought I was gathering knowledge and gaining more insight, but didn’t realize it was a deeper knowing of a spiritual kind that actually reduces the distance of operating from my head to my heart. It has made all the difference.

Not only are we called to be more of who we are in God - who we were created to be - but we are continually called to stretch. This means to be more loving, to take more risks, to be more vulnerable and more relational in how we live. After completing the Benedictine Spiritual Formation Program, it was clear to me that I had just started to open to a fullness of life and the realization it would be a life-long journey. Upon the prompting and invitation of a fellow classmate, I was introduced to a newly forming Oblate group in the Denver area that gathers at Krameria House under the mentorship of Sister Marilyn. From the beginning, the Prologue of the Rule of St. Benedict spoke to the very core of my being and I came to realize through the words and teaching that it was possible to be on a pilgrim’s journey to prefer nothing but Christ, stability, obedience and conversion of life. This is all possible for me through the loving grace of God. It feels like coming home.

L to R (back): Libby (Murray) Skinner , Connie (Nachtrab) Williamson, Sandi (Rockers) Erfurdt, Carolyn (Treacy) Nummela, Kate (Poiter) Wheatley, Kathie (Vidmar) Mitchell and Naomi (Paddon) Dunlap; L to R (front): Jane (Srieby) Pateron and Michele (Newbill) Kingman

By Libby (Mary Elizabeth) Murray Skinner, Class of ‘67Benet Hill Academy Alumnae

In deepest sympathy we remember our dear alumnae and their families who have lost loved ones.

Lynne Szczutkowski Neiss, Class of ‘82 for the loss of her mother, Emily Therese Szczutkowski

Suzie Ross Winkelblach, Class of ‘74 for the loss of her mother, Eloise Ross

Patty Langley Boatner, Class of ‘75 for the loss of her father, Warren Langley

Monica Phelan Katsus, Class of ‘79 and Valerie Phelan for the loss of their father, Donald Phelan

Looking back, I am truly amazed at what the sisters accomplished during the four years of my high school education. They instilled within us a sense of purpose and a love of learning. In addition to teaching, they guided and encouraged our talents in publishing a newspaper, speech and debate, singing, dancing and music.

As I reflect back, nothing will ever compare with those fledgling years of being together as pioneers of Benet Hill Academy.

“And if the calling is true, though we may not have gone where we intended, we will surely end up

where we need to be.” -Steve Goodier

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Sister Phyllis Echterling, OSB has a ministry of collecting and repurposing stuffed animals. She collects, washes and gives away hundreds of stuffed animals to retreatants, children, immigrants and anyone who needs a little extra love. Come and see her if you need a stuffed animal and some extra love!

A Day in the Life

Sister Olive Therese Geiger, OSB loves creating simple, beautiful candles for community celebrations prayer services and gifts. She also plays the organ for prayer services and Mass when needed.

L to R: Sisters Phyllis Echterling, Mary Jane Vigil and Helen Zecha enjoyed watching the eclipse through special glasses provided by Jennifer Speer. Jennifer also took pictures of the sisters as they watched. The shadow photo is of a colander (below) showing the crescent shapes as the eclipse was happening.

Sisters Mary Jane Vigil and Mary Colleen Schwarz enjoyed the Bronco game on September 17- a gift from Sister Evangeline’s nephews!

In September Sister Francine Stallbaumer, OSB attended the Assistant Prioress and Monastery Coordinator Annual Gathering at Sacred Heart Monastery in Cullman, AL. Sisters Tonette Serando, OSB and Kimberly Porter, OSB presented Monastic Life: Effective leadership depends upon formal and informal leaders working in harmony with the mission and policies of the institution.

On Sunday, September 17, Diane Miller, Director of the Nature and Raptor Center of Pueblo, came to the monastery to share the stories of two great horned owls and to release them into their natural environment. The owls were initially found and rescued in the Black Forest region and upon successfully completing rehabilitation were ready to be returned to their home.

Compiled By Gina Berger, Communications Director

Diane Miller, Director of the Nature and Raptor Center of Pueblo

By Sister MT Summers, Director of Oblates

The adult owl was injured with a broken ulna and after months of healing and testing for successful survival skills was ready for release. The ultimate test for an owl is to fly without making noise and scaring its prey. The second owl, a juvenile fledgling, was found in the back yard of a local neighbor. This little guy was not injured and just needed to put on some weight. The Nature Center’s surrogate mama owl, Aggie, trains young rescued owls. Aggie has been with the Nature Center for over 10 years and raised numerous baby owls brought in for a variety of reasons. Once tested for survival, the juvenile was also ready for release.

This sisters and oblates decided to draw two names to assist Diane in the release. The two lucky individuals were Sister Margaret Meaney, OSB and Oblate, Mary Halpin. It was a privilege to witness these magnificent birds take flight! We are grateful for the work of the Nature and Raptor Center of Pueblo and our participation in this rarely seen event.

Top Right: Diane Miller assists Oblate, Mary Halpin for the

first owl release.Bottom: Sister Margaret Meaney

releases the second owl.

“Tell me, what is it you plan to do

with your one wild and precious life?”

-Mary Oliver

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Calm, loving, and knowledgeable are just a few attributes of Steve Gabriel. A volunteer for Benet Hill since 2009, he has offered his time and talents to assist various sisters and in many different ministries. Steve is a graduate of the Benedictine Spiritual Formation Program and the Spiritual Journey Program, and as such offers great insight in a thorough and professional manner. Sister Ana Cloughly, OSB, is particularly appreciative of his efforts and says he never fails to balance her nervous energy with his calm demeanor. Together with Sister Ana he co-facilitates the Centering Prayer Introductory Workshop and the Welcoming Prayer Workshop. He also facilitates the Forgiveness Retreat each year and will co-facilitate the Lectio Divina Retreat for the first time this year. Steve has deep knowledge of contemplative prayer and recently became a certified presenter for Contemplative Outreach for Centering Prayer. In addition, he has served as a Befriending the Mystics presenter for over five years; a popular program created by Steve and Sister Ana. The monastery community is extremely grateful for Steve’s loyalty and generous support and view him as a valued friend and volunteer.

Mission Advancement

The Sisters of Benet Hill Monastery are delighted that they will, once again, be participating in this year’s CO Gives Day which will be on Tuesday, December 5th. Colorado Gives Day is an annual statewide movement to celebrate and increase philanthropy in Colorado. Last year, faithful supporters of the sisters raised over $12,000 on CO Gives Day 2016!

By Carin Willis, Interim Director of Mission Advancement

Volunteer Highlight: Steve Gabriel

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)

A QCD is a direct transfer of funds from your IRA custodian payable to a qualified charity which excludes the amount donated from taxable income. QCDs are eligible charitable distributions for people who are over the age of 70 ½.

For more information, please email your financial advisor, or Sister Clare at: sclare@benethillmonastery.org

Pathways to Peace-Enjoy a guided tour of the Monastery, hear about the history of the Sisters of Benet Hill, and learn about their present day mission and ministries. Please join us in 2018 for our next Pathways to Peace at the Monastery. Bring a friend, neighbor or loved one!

Thank You!Special Edition ReviewWe are grateful for the outpouring of love for the Sisters of Benet Hill Monastery highlighted in our Special Edition Review which featured their 50 year history in Colorado. The sisters wish to thank everyone for gifts made in their honor as well as for all of the other gifts and sponsorships of the Special Edition Review which raised $20,398!

Do you attend Sunday Liturgy? Are you a volunteer at Benet Hill? Have you ever attended any of the spiritual programs, classes or workshops? Have you attended any concerts or free films?

By Sonja Ragaller, Interim Volunteer Coordinator

Why are you called to support the Sisters of Benet Hill Monastery?

2018 Schedule

January 11March 8May 10July 12September 13November 8

Please RSVP to Carin Willis in Mission Advancement:cwillis@benethillmonastery.org

Did you attend Benet Hill Academy? Are you an oblate of Benet Hill Monastery? What calling in your heart do you hear that leads you to support the sisters with monetary or In Kind gifts?

The Mission Advancement office would love to hear from you! If you are a family, a couple, or an individual who feels the call to support the sisters, and you would be interested in sharing your story in future issues of The Review of Benet Hill Monastery, or highlighted in Facebook or e-newsletters, please email us at: missionadv@benethillmonastery.org

Human Trafficking ~ New Ministry

What is Human Trafficking? The Sisters of Benet Hill Monastery are responding to the needs of our time by spreading awareness about human trafficking and education about human trafficking prevention. (See more information about upcoming events sponsored by Benet Hill on page 10.)

If you feel a calling in your heart to support this new ministry, please send checks to Benet Hill Monastery with a memo line of “Human Trafficking Prevention Fund.”

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Benet Hill Monastery opened Sisters’ Thrift & Boutique in September 2012 and just celebrated its fifth anniversary. The success of the store is created through the hard work of the staff and volunteers, donations and loyal customers. All funds raised at Sisters’ Thrift & Boutique help support the retired Sisters of Benet Hill Monastery. One of the greatest benefits of Sisters’ is the fellowship shared between staff, volunteers and customers, and the ability to provide a unique shopping experience.

Sisters’ Thrift & Boutique offers quality service and a short reprieve from busy life. Staff and volunteers strive for a fun experience, fellowship and a community of Godly service. From our lovely manager, Verna Narwold, “The store is a refuge to many of our customers—they share their stories, heartaches, and jokes. They bring us joy!”

We, the staff and volunteers, strive for sincere service and are looking forward to an even deeper relationship with the community. Shari Silva, manager extraordinaire says, “I love the customers and the feeling of family and community. Over the five years this store has been open, my customers are family and friends. They come not only to shop, but to visit and share their lives with us.” We strive to make a positive lasting impact on anyone who comes to the store, whether it’s to shop for treasures or to volunteer. We will continue to seek out a deeper connection with our wonderful customers in the coming years. Thank you to all employees, volunteers and especially, our customers!

Contemplative prayer is a pure gift of the Holy Spirit. It is that moment when we lose track of where we end and God begins. Truly, there is no separation between us and God, however; we are often unaware of this truth. So how do we become more aware? It is through prayer. Spiritual leaders suggest that sitting in stillness creates a disposition within us that opens us to the gift of contemplation. Centering prayer is one of the practices through which we become still and aware. We gain the most benefit by engaging daily in this practice.

In September we held two workshops introducing the practice of centering prayer, one at Benet Hill Monastery and one at First Presbyterian Church in Pueblo. Presenters are an important part of our ministry and there are several requirements to become a certified presenter. Steve Gabriel, Ann Christensen, Rick Klein and Dixie Schull, all of whom are seeking their certification with Contemplative Outreach Ltd., led these workshops as part of their certification. I feel profoundly blessed that they are part of the team at Benet Hill and are helping us to teach the practice of centering prayer.

Sisters’ Thrift & Boutique By Paige Perret, Assistant Manager

Sister Helen Zecha, OSB enjoys shopping

at Sisters’ Thrift & Boutique.

Contemplative Prayer Team

COMING SOONHuman Trafficking Prevention Series sponsored by Benet Hill Community and hosted by PPLD 21C at 1175 Chapel Hills Drive, Colorado Springs.

Dates: Monday Evenings: January 22, 29, February 5,12, 2018 Time: 6:30 pm -8:15 pm

January 22: Dr. Jeff Brodsky, Founder and Executive Director of Joy International. www. Joy International.org

January 29: Jessa Crisp, A Survivor’s Story: “Beauty from Ashes: The Power of Mentorship in the Process of Healing from Trafficking “Executive Director and co-Founder of Bridge Hope

February 5: Agencies of Caring and Compassion for Survivors (Panel)

February 12: Conversation with Colorado State Representatives: State and Federal Laws that can prevent Human Trafficking. How your voice can make a difference.

“Barefoot Mile Walk” June 9, 2018 Benet Hill Community and Sponsors

Store Hours:

Mon.-Fri. 10:00 am -5:30 pm Saturdays 10 am - 4:00 pm

Phone: 719-282-0316

Human Trafficking Prevention Series

For more information or questions, please

contact Sister Rose Ann Barman, OSB: sroseann@

benethillmonastery.org

By Sister Ana Cloughly, OSB Director of Contemplative Vision

Contemplative Vision Team ~ L to R: Sister Ana Cloughly, Director, Steve Gabriel, Ann Christensen, Rick Klein and Dixie Schull

8674 N. Union Blvd. Next to Safeway

11

Quotes from Retreat Participants:

It was an insightful time for me. I experienced God’s presence in a way I haven’t for a long time-I feel close to God.

Well done...well prepared...simple...perfect.

I enjoyed it and felt God put me in the right place at the right time. I will be bringing friends to enjoy/benefit from the labyrinth.

I was so struck by the added dimension of walking the labyrinth with my husband-especially seeing how right and normal it is to be in different places and even going in different directions while on the same path.

First Saturday Prayer DaysLocation: Benet Hill Monastery 9:00 am to 12:30 pm

Saturdays: Nov. 4, Dec. 2 2018: Jan. 6, Feb. 3, Mar. 3, Apr. 7, May 5, June 2, July 7

Social Time: 9:00 am -9:30 am (Social time begins at 9:00 and prayer begins at 9:30)

Wednesday Centering PrayerLocation: Benedicta’s House 2602 N. Chelton Rd. Colorado Springs Wednesday: 9:00 am to 10:00 am

Contact: Sister Therese O’Grady, OSB Phone: (719) 473-8764 stherese@benethillmonastery.org

Ministry at Benet Hill

On August 26th, 37 participants met at Benet Hill with Amy Agape, PhD and Sister Marilyn Carpenter, OSB for a day of healing from grief and loss. Upon registration and prior to the retreat/workshop day, each person was asked to fill out a check list of losses, changes, life transitions and traumas they have experienced. The preparation exercise enabled participants time to identify their losses on paper and allow them time to devote the entire day to praying with others, engaging in small group discussions, private individual reflection time and an afternoon of guided healing exercises. The day began and ended around the fountain of healing waters and a special blessing of light.

Many evaluation comments expressed gratitude for the small group discussions, the gentle and helpful guidance given by presenters at the beginning of the day and the time for personal and private reflection. Several of the attendees have already invited a friend or family member to attend the same retreat/workshop to be repeated at Benet Hill on Sat. Jan 27, 2018. Please register online.

Befriending the Mystics Block 3: Fridays Jan.19 - Feb. 9, 2018 9:30 am to 11:30 amEach Block: $100

Class Description: Mysticism has a long history in our Christian heritage. The mystical experiences of many saints are well documented. However, mystical experience is very personal and extremely intimate. Each mystic has his or her own story, lived in a particular time and place. Each mystic has very special encounters with God which we are privileged to share.

Befriending the Mystics is designed to give participants a chance to peek in on the mystical experience of a variety of people throughout history. Each session will include prayer, a presentation on a particular mystic and the sharing of writings.

Jan 19 John Duns Scotus Jan 26 Thich Nhat Hanh Feb 2 Abraham Heschel Feb 9 Simeon the New Theologian

Healing Our Losses: Honoring Each Unique Journey

By Sister Marilyn Carpenter, OSB

On Saturday, October 14, twelve retreatants participated in a prayerful Labyrinth retreat led by Sister Jan Ginzkey, OSB, Assistant Prioress. Walking a labyrinth is a lesser known part of the Christian tradition. Our outdoor labyrinth was created in 2001 by Sister Jan Ginzkey and 37 volunteers and is based on the ancient, yet contemporary labyrinth design found in the Cathedral in Chartres, France. The labyrinth is a metaphor of life. We did not smooth the ground or remove trees because life is not smooth and we meet obstacles along the way. . Take advantage of this opportunity for silent meditation and contemplation.

Healing Our Losses Retreat

Benet Hill Monastery3190 Benet LaneColorado Springs, CO 80921-1509

Non-profit Org.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDColorado Springs

COPermit No. 576RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

The Review is published quarterly by Benet Hill Monastery of Colorado Springs, Inc., 3190 Benet Lane, Colorado Springs, CO 80921-1509 PHONE: 719/633-0655 FAX: 719/471-0403 EMAIL: info@benethillmonastery.org WEBSITE: www.benethillmonastery.org

EDITOR/LAYOUT/DESIGN - Gina Berger, Communications Director; Assisted by Barbara Lynette, Online Communications Assistant COVER ART - Sister Charlotte Redpath, OSB CONTRIBUTORS - Sisters and staff of Benet Hill Monastery, students, alumnae and friends.

Benet Hill Monastery * 3190 Benet Ln. * Colorado Springs, CO 80921* PH:719-633-0655The Monastery is situated in the woodland setting of the Black Forest

located in northeast Colorado Springs, off Highway 83.

FREE: Film Series

An Advent Pause: Show Up, Slow Down

REGISTER

ONLINE

Description: This film is a true underdog story of two brave girls who take a stand against government intrusion and hypocrisy while exploring the complex and controversial truths of the childhood obesity debate. Misguided attempts at eliminating obesity are highlighted in ways that will surprise many. This is a great film for parents, teens and children of all ages who want to gain more insight into this issue and learn what may cause more damage than good in fighting childhood obesity. Length: 85 minutes

Description: An American from Virginia adopts a beautiful orphan boy from Russia. A billionaire investment banker seeks justice for his lawyer who is killed after exposing corruption in the Russian government. The actions of both men cause the Russian Adoption Ban. This film explains with clarity how one action affects another and the impact on all involved in these seemingly unrelated incidents. Length: 85 minutes

Friday, March 9, 2018 Start Time: 6:30 pm

“THE STUDENT BODY”

Friday, January 12, 2018 Start Time: 6:30 pm

“TO THE MOON AND BACK”

Chamber Concert Series: PARISH HOUSE BAROQUE Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018 2:30 pm

Description: Early music ensemble, Parish House Baroque, (Elisa Wicks, baroque violin; Jennifer Carpenter, recorders; Pam Chaddon, viola da gamba/baroque cello and Eric Wicks, harpsichord) present another highly expressive and historically informed concert showcasing the brilliance and diversity of music from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries on period instruments through masterworks of the Renaissance and Baroque.

Saturday, Dec. 9     9:00 am to 1:00 pm Fee: $45.00

If you would like to be less rushed and more spiritually connected....

then you are invited to this retreat.

Presenter: Sister Marilyn Carpenter, OSB

Concert SeriesFREE Film Series: Partnering with the Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Institute

All films are FREE, but we do ask you to register online for planning purposes. www.benethillmonastery.org

Tickets:Adult: $20 Seniors/Students: $15

Purchase Tickets online at: www.benethillmonastery.org