Happenings


Contact Us \| Breuer Architecture \| Heritage \| Lewis and Clark	\| Make a Donation

Monastery Happenings

Learn More! Click here to view our Happenings Archives

Prayer Day keynote speaker, John O'Leary, with Sister Edith Selzler

Over 1,200 people were blessed to hear John O'Leary's inspirational story at the University of Mary Prayer Day event on February 2. He, Sister Edith Selzler and Parnel Plante also shared their amazing stories of grace, peace and love that rose out of their personal hardships - how their "cross" turned into blessing. Prayer Day (also the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord) ended with Eucharistic Liturgy, presided by the Most Reverend David D. Kagan, Bishop of Bismarck.

Celebrating Catholic Schools Week

Sister Nicole Kunze spent the day with students from Saint Anne School during Catholic Schools Week. She, with the help of University of Mary students, helped these little chemists perform some experiments. Sister Nicole is a chemistry professor at the University of Mary.

* * * * *

Sisters Serve at The Banquet

On January 26, our sisters bought, prepared and served a meal to over 320 people (plus 30 take-out meals!) at Trinity Lutheran Church at "The Banquet." This meal is offered every Thursday, at no charge, to anyone who would like a hot, nourishing meal and conversation. Sister Thomas Welder greeted people as they came through the doors and even led singing "Happy Birthday," to those who were celebrating their birthdays.

Banquet director, Tudy Fennern, said 104,000 meals have been served at this community dinner which has been taking place for the past seven years!

Sisters Agatha and JoAnn take a quick coffee break after washing 350 pieces of chicken. Best to take a break before the crowd arrives!

We think Sister Patricia (far left) and Sister Melissa (far right) are "peaches" for dishing up peaches.

Sister Thomas Welder welcomes guests of "The Banquet."

Sisters Patricia, Mariah and Rosemary serve a yummy chicken and rice dish.

Sisters JoAnn, Nancy G. and Agatha work as a team with this University of Mary student who is waiting tables.

Sister Margaret volunteers at "The Banquet" almost every week.

Here she is signaling when guests are seated and ready to eat.

Sister Gerard is on the go, delivering meals.

Sister Kathleen invites this little guy to join her for supper!

* * * * *

Reflection for St. Alexius Medical Center Annual Auxiliary Meeting

Sister Nancy Miller, Prioress (1/24/12)

Thank you for letting me to be a part of your annual meeting and luncheon today. I bring with me greetings from all the sisters of Annunciation Monastery – the sponsors of the medical center. Thank you for the many ways you provide service to those who come to St. Alexius. You live out in a very special way the values that St. Benedict teaches us. Hospitality, respect, care of the sick, stewardship, the offering of a good word, receiving all as Christ and so much more. Together, you and we sisters, carry on the mission of Jesus. We cannot do it without you. We are grateful. Thank you!

Let me begin with a story. In a reflection book printed several years ago by the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, I found the story of a girl who grew up in a poor community where the terrain was rugged and winters were difficult. She and the other local children never played on a nearby mountainside – they were afraid of an older woman who lived there. They could see her everyday going through the ritual of slowly taking a step, bending down, digging in the uneven ground, taking a step, over and over, though it was clearly a chore for her to get around. Adults in the community described her as just plain odd, someone who didn’t fit in.

The young girl grew up, moved away, married. After many years, she happened to revisit the place of her childhood and found it transformed. All over the mountainside, flowers bloomed and children played among them. When she remarked on the lovely scene, people said that long ago, there was a remarkable old lady who planted seeds every day on the mountainside where she lived. Thanks to her, the mountain now was filled with life and new promise.

As people who are an integral part of Catholic health care, we are called to transform, to plant seeds that give life and bring promise to God’s people. We take care of hearts while taking care of business.

You and the part you play here at the medical center, as well as this story of the woman planting seeds reminds me of my growing up years in Harvey and the relationship I had with my grandmother – Grandma Miller. Grandpa and Grandma Miller lived just down the street from us. I as well as my brothers and sisters would often go to visit – actually get into the candy drawer and then play an intense card game of Kings in the Corner. Occasionally, and actually quite often, Grandma Miller wasn’t home. But that was okay because we always knew where she was. She faithfully served on the auxiliary at the Harvey Hospital. We would go back across the street and head for the hospital to find Grandma Miller. She would warmly greet us and give us an opportunity to help her with her work. The seed she planted in us was to be of service to those in need. I like to believe that she instilled in me the importance of service and being a part of something bigger than just myself. Another way of taking care of hearts while taking care of business.

You are all familiar with the signs at our entrances, "Let all be received as Christ." As you know, these words come from the Rule of St. Benedict. We sisters follow this Rule, written back in the 6th century. As Benedictines, we live community life, which means we live together, pray together and work together. We promise stability and stay as a prayerful presence in the area where our monastery is located. Believe it or not, Benedictine sisters have been in Bismarck since 1878.

The work of Benedictines is to respond and serve in ways that are needed in the area. We Sisters of Annunciation Monastery have a ministry of sponsorship to serve the educational and health needs of western North Dakota. We sponsor St. Alexius Medical Center, Garrison Memorial Hospital and the University of Mary. We have served the needs of the people in this area for over 125 years here at the medical center, over 50 years at the University of Mary and since 1952 at Garrison Hospital. We collaborate with others to establish and sustain institutions of higher education and quality health care. The difference between our hospital and any other hospital is our mission, values and Benedictine heritage. It sets us apart. It is another way of taking care of hearts while taking care of business. We uphold the teachings of the Catholic Church and we integrate St. Benedict’s values that come directly from the gospels.

A source of inspiration for me as I live this Benedictine life and visit with various groups is scripture. The Gospel proclaimed at today’s Mass is from the Gospel of St. Mark. The crowd around Jesus tells him that his mother, brothers and sisters are outside asking for him. But Jesus replies by saying, "Who are my mother and brothers and sisters?" And looking at those seated with him he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers and sisters. For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother."

There is a culture that is prominent in today’s society – one that encourages us to “take care of our own.” Generally that is a positive impulse. We have responsibilities to our immediate family that do not normally extend to strangers. Our role as Christians, however, encourages us to broaden our understanding of “family” to include all of God’s children. Our “family” includes the poor, outcasts and those who have no one else. There is nothing wrong with taking care of our own, but Jesus’ point is that everyone is “our own.” Another way of taking care of hearts while taking care of business.

Doing God's will--this is what Jesus came to do and to teach us to do. This is what the sisters have been striving to do in receiving all as Christ, carrying on Jesus' healing ministry since 1885 when St. Alexius first opened its doors. We have not done this alone, as you well know. From the very beginning we have counted on others to help us. Our monastery mission statement clearly indicates this – “…we strive with others to respond to the challenges of the times and to further the mission of Jesus by prayer, lectio and service.

You, women of St. Alexius Auxiliary, have been doing God's will in so many ways as you participate in the work of St. Alexius, carrying on the mission of Jesus by your dedicated service.

Today I come with a heart full of gratitude for you auxiliary members and all that you have done through the years in helping us sisters. You raise funds through various activities such as the gift shop, the annual bazaar and hosting book and art fairs. The fruits of your labor go towards the support of projects or programs that enhance patient and visitor welfare here at our medical center. Thank you for sharing your gifts and talents and most especially for your prayers for those who are most in need.

We, as in you and I, carry out the mission, "let all be received as Christ." Imagine the people you touch with your service when you take on this mission. The bright spot you can be in someone’s burdened day. The support given to someone who may feel alone or abandoned. You are that source of support to absolutely everyone you encounter, patients, family members, employees, each other. How wonderful it is when I can be that support -- and how fortunate for me when someone can be a support for me. In a very real and in a “hands on” approach you assist the sisters and all who minister here in carrying out mission. By the very thing you do, you assist us in our ministry of sponsorship. Each one in this room, and others who could not be with us, provides examples and witness to gospel values. Through your ministry you strengthen the pillars of people and service and you also strengthen who we are as a Catholic hospital by being true to our values not just within these walls, but in our everyday lives, no matter where we are.

The people we work with--all of you--are essential in carrying out the mission of St. Alexius Medical Center. As I mentioned earlier, we need you to carry on the teaching and healing mission of Jesus. You are a part of our Benedictine family. We count on you, we pray for you and, as St. Paul says, we never stop thanking our God and rejoicing "at the way you have all continually helped promote the gospel from the very first day" you began your work as the Auxiliary. You are planting seeds and nurturing the beauty of the human spirit. This is another way of taking care of hearts while taking care of business. God bless you.

* * * * *

Funeral Reflection for Sister Audrey Martin

Sister Nancy Miller, Prioress

January 2, 2012

Father Daniel, sisters, family and friends of Sister Audrey, thank you again for your presence here today as we continue to celebrate Sister Audrey’s entrance into everlasting life with God.

It is a joyful celebration because that is what Sister Audrey wanted. In her funeral plans, she said she wanted her passing into the Kingdom to be a joyous ceremony. She asked specifically that the theme of this liturgy be joy in the resurrection.

Here we are, still in the Christmas season, celebrating the birth of Jesus our Savior and Sister Audrey wants us to jump right to the resurrection. She didn’t want us to be too sad at her passing. She wished to console us, to comfort us with the belief that she is now living forever in the loving embrace of God.

After all, she was baptized into the Body of Christ, baptized into God’s family, baptized into the death and resurrection of Jesus. She dedicated her life to Jesus and God’s people, and firmly believed that God would take her to the heavenly kingdom after her earthly death.

That is why the Scriptures for her funeral liturgy are full of the good news of the resurrection. In the second reading, St. Paul urges us to hope in life after death. He says that if we believe that Jesus died and rose, then Jesus will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. “Thus we shall always be with the Lord.”

In the Gospel, Jesus tells Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even through they die, will live, and every one who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Martha, like Sister Audrey did, replies, “Yes Lord, I have come to believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God.”

Sister Audrey lived this belief all her life. With that characteristic twinkle in her eye and a smile that lit up a room, she put her whole self and her faith in Jesus into whatever she did – elementary and secondary teacher for 25 years, a counselor at St. Mary’s Central High School, archivist at St. Alexius Medical Center and at the monastery, vocation director, director of women in initial formation, oblate director and subprioress of our monastic community.

She certainly was a flexible, creative woman. She once said of herself that she had “varied and happy careers.”

But careers were not important to her; it was her vocation as a monastic sister that she valued the most. A member of Annunciation Monastery for 63 years, Sister Audrey commented in her vocation story that becoming a Benedictine sister was the best vocation choice she could have made. She was happy as a sister. She said, “I thank God for calling me to the community of Annunciation Monastery.”

Sister Audrey, we too thank God for calling you to be a Benedictine sister and living among us for so many years. You are a special gift to all of us – your Benedictine sisters, your friends and your large extended family.

I know Sister Audrey would want me to express a special thank you to her family for loving and being so good to her. She loved you, often talked about you and was proud of all of you. Know she will always be with you in spirit and in memory.

Sister Audrey, we love you and will miss your delightful presence here with us. But we are also joyful that you are relishing new life with God – a life free from suffering and full of joy. We rejoice and give thanks that you have been a part of our lives. You will live on in our hearts and memories forever.

* * * * *

REFLECTION FOR THE WAKE

FOR SISTER AUDREY MARTIN, OSB

~ S. Edith Selzler, OSB

January 1, 2012

I met S. Audrey when I was five years old. My good buddy, neighbor and classmate, Cleo Colness, went dashing across the playground and I dashed with her, not knowing where or why we were going. We landed in front of S. Audrey and Cleo began telling her of family news. Then she introduced me to her aunt! From that moment through sixty more years, S. Audrey taught me that Sisters are real people, and she was a special humane, creative, wise and loving person. At that time I realized that someone who had nieces, nephews, a least one sister that I knew of – Ann Colness – must be a real human, contrary to the imaginings of first graders who weren’t sure Sisters had legs. Her warmth, kindness and good humor in dealing with school children made me wish fruitlessly to get into her class.

There were two decades when I didn’t see her, but affirmation of her steadiness of character and relationships with students has come from community members, fellow teachers and former students. Many of her past students would drop by her classroom to visit with her, for they treasured her wisdom, kindness and sense of humor, qualities that would stand her well when later she became a high school counselor. After I became a member of the Community I got to know her once again, eventually living with her on mission at St. Joe’s in Mandan. I was a new teacher and teaching at a different school, but she was supportive and willing to share practical advice when I requested her help.

Then came a surprising shift for us. She was asked to take over the direction and formation of the new Sisters in temporary vows, a challenging task with a new “baby boomer” crowd that was experiencing a new and different culture. She performed that task with her usual kindness, wisdom, respect for each person, and sometimes that needed sense of humor. My shift was to take over her English classes at Christ the King. She had done that so beautifully, however could I ? But her example of serene courage in shifting tasks gave me moral support.

Over the following years she prepared in graduate school to become a school counselor, and worked at St. Mary’s Central. Sometime after, she first assisted S. Norma with the Oblate program, then led it herself for a time. Then she received professional preparation to become archivist for St. Alexius Medical Center, and then for the monastery archives which she helped relocate from “the Priory” to the new monastery.

Moving from one ministry to another and going after new professional training for each one didn’t seem to fluster her constant serenity or shake her courage. Her prayer and trust in God ran deep, and rooted her in the constancy of God’s presence. Her joy and love of song poured out always. Her beautiful voice was a gift as cantor at Scholastica and in the community choir. One Sister tells of going on a walk with her, and as they started out S. Audrey sang: dumpdada dump dada dump dump dump…the familiar part of the William Tell Overture, otherwise known as the theme from “The Lone Ranger.” She was ready to go “Hi ho, Silver Away!”

In her final years she spent much time embroidering dish towels. Her stitches were always just so perfect. She said that S. Carmelita taught her when she was on one of her first missions, and she still followed her directions exactly. It was in this “last career” that her failing became visible. Although her stitches remained enviably perfect, her sense of color disappeared. Though purple pigs and pictures done completely in white on white could be amusing in a way, this presaged unfortunate times on their way for her.

As a resident at St. Vincent’s Care Center, her good cheer and hospitable warmth endured to the end. Her bright eyes lit up when anyone she knew came to visit; and even if she couldn’t remember their name, she knew them as dear to her. So dear that they found it a bit tricky to escape all her hugs and kisses!

So to the end she modeled what should be best in a human person, a Christian, a Benedictine monastic. She was real, she was human, she was much loved.

May the God she loved gather her to life everlasting.

In Loving Memory

Sister Audrey Martin

Sister Audrey Martin, 84, a member of the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Bismarck, entered eternal life Dec. 27, 2011, at a Bismarck care center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, in the Chapel of Annunciation Monastery. Visitation starts at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the monastery and continues until the time of the funeral. A wake service is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sunday at the monastery.

Sister Audrey was born March 5, 1927, in Bismarck to Anna Marie (Fischer) and Nick Martin. She was the 7^th of 10 children and given the name Alberta Agnes. She attended St. Mary’s Grade School and St. Mary’s High School in Bismarck.

After high school, Alberta entered the newly established Annunciation Monastery. In 1947 she was among the first class of novices at the new monastery and received the name, Sister Audrey. She made monastic profession on July 1, 1948.

A cheerful, outgoing person of faith, Sister Audrey enjoyed people and, as she once said, “had varied and happy careers.” She taught for 25 years in elementary and high schools in Dickinson, Bismarck, Mandan, and at St. Lawrence School in Flasher where she also was principal. Sister Audrey was a wonderful, creative, well-organized educator. A favorite teacher among the children, she loved her students and they knew it.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Mary and a master’s in education with a concentration in guidance and counseling from North Dakota State University.

Sister Audrey served as director of vocation ministry and director of sisters in first monastic profession at Annunciation Monastery, counselor at St. Mary’s Central High and as subprioress of the monastery. She was also director of Annunciation Monastery’s oblates for five years.

After receiving archival training, she established the first on-site archives at St. Alexius Medical Center. From 1993-1999, she organized the medical center’s archives and electronically catalogued its contents. She later became archivist at the monastery and moved the archives from the former monastery to the new site in 2000.

Sister Audrey had a great sense of humor, a hardy laugh and an excellent soprano singing voice. She came from a close family and enjoyed family gatherings and reunions. She loved her family and they were so good to her. She was especially close to her mother and visited her frequently.

While she was in the care center, she delighted in having company and was delightful to be with. Her happy eyes and smile lit up as she welcomed visitors. Often she would sing for them. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

A Benedictine sister for 63 years, Sister Audrey said that becoming a sister was the best vocation choice she could have made. “I thank God for calling me to the community of Annunciation Monastery.”

Sister Audrey is survived by two sisters, Virginia (Julius) Brigl, Bismarck; Rose Schafer, Tacoma, Wash; three brothers, Clarence, Bismarck; Francis (Akiko) Santa Ana, Calif.; John, Antelope, Calif.; a sister-in-law, Mary Martin, Bismarck, and the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery.

Memorials may be made to Annunciation Monastery.

To share memories of Sister Audrey, visit www.parkwayfuneral.com and sign the online guest book (Parkway Funeral Service, Bismarck)

* * * * *

Sister Nancy Gunderson Receives Special Gift

Sister Nancy received this bronze statue of St. Michael, the archangel. She often prayed to him as this powerful saint companioned her along the streets to holy sites. The gift came from her friends, Dianne Besch and Joann Schumacher, who traveled with her for 10 days. Sister Nancy spoke of the comfort and peace she felt as she prayed to St. Michael, who kept her safe and guided her steps. She says, "I have come to know saints who companioned me these days -- one in particular is St. Michael, when I was lost or scared. He has been a very real support and peaceful guide when I wanted to find particular places or be led where I needed to go. This statue symbolizes much to me of my inner and outer journey while in Rome with his companionship."

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

December 8, 2011

Sister Nancy Gunderson holds art representations of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Left is a ceramic likeness of Mary that Sister Nancy purchased at a flea market in Rome. To the right is a wood carved statue of Mary, from Lourdes.

The Season of Advent is Upon Us!

Sister Hildegarde Urlacher with her handmade nativity sets made of drip 'n drape and others made of corn husks. These are displayed in the monastery display case. You are welcome to come and see them in person!

Sister Hildegarde With Her Much-Anticipated Christmas Breads

Today, on November 30, 2011,

We Celebrate the Episcopal Ordination

and Installation of

Most Reverend David Dennis Kagan, D.D., J.C.L.

as the Seventh Bishop of Bismarck

The Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery send warm blessings to the

Most Reverend David Dennis Kagan, D.D., J.C.L., and Most Reverend Paul A. Zipfel, D.D.,

Bishop Emeritus and Apostolic Administrator of Bismarck, who has so faithfully shepherded

the people of the Diocese of Bismarck for many years. May God bless you both as

you continue to serve God's people!

* * * * *

Original Icon Commissioned for the

Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery

from the University of Mary

Icon image courtesy of Markell Studios, Saint Paul, Minn.

"Prefer Nothing to the Love of Christ"

Bismarck Benediction

An original icon commissioned for the

Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery

to celebrate the advent of the Most Rev. David D. Kagan,

seventh bishop of Bismarck, and in warm tribute to the

Benedictine sisters and monks who have labored for the Gospel

on the prairies of western North Dakota.

Gifted November 28, 2011 by The University of Mary

Central in the icon is Saint Benedict of Nursia, blessing and with open book, a symbol of his life as abbot and teacher, through which God remains glorified. To his sides are Mother Benedicta Riepp, holding and presenting the Annunciation Monastery bell banner and Bishop Wehrle, holding and presenting the Bismarck Cathedral of the Holy Spirit. The structures are symbols of the lives of the leaders and founders for the sake of Christ and His Church.

The icon was "written" on a traditional carved wood panel with braces, using materials such as marble dust, chalk and 24 krt gold. Actual stone fragments from the Cathedral were ground to create pigment and water from the Jordan River and was used in the mixing of paint. (explanation provided by icon writer, Nicholas Markell).

* * * * *

Sisters Mariah, Patricia, Lawrence, Agatha and JoAnn stand among our beautiful "burning" bushes.

* * * * *

Welcome University of Mary Campus Ministry Students and Staff

October 26, 2011

University of Mary Campus Ministry students blessed us with their presence and offering of Mass for the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery. What a joy it is to have you in our midst. Please know we keep you in our prayers and you are always welcome at Annunciation Monastery.

Prioress Sister Nancy Miller welcomes all to Annunciation Monastery.

Father Benedict served as presider of the Mass.

University of Mary student musicians blessed us with their music.

* * * * *

Sisters Welcome Msgr. David Kagan

to Annunciation Monastery

Msgr. David Kagan of the Diocese of Rockford, IL, has been named bishop of the Diocese of Bismarck by Pope Benedict XVI. Kagan will succeed Bishop Paul A. Zipfel, who has served as Bishop of Bismarck since 1997.

Msgr. David Kagan, Bishop Paul A. Zipfel, Sister Nancy Miller and Father James Shea

Msgr. Kagan views Sister Michael Kaliher's painting of the Annunciation Monastery bell banner.

God With Us

Both of these photos are from the same sunrise the morning of October 15, 2011. How stunning to see the bold, fiery reds, oranges and yellows melt into gentle clouds of pink and lavender. The morning was still, a chill in the air, and the blessed assurance that God, indeed, is with us.

**********

Welcome Oblate Helen Geinert

Helen Geinert signs the oblation document in the presence of Sister JoAnn Krebsbach, subprioress (left) and Sister Patricia Schap, director of oblates, the monastic community and Helen's family.

Sister Stephanie Dolyniuk, Sister Patricia Schap, Helen Geinert (holding the Rule of St. Benedict) and Sister JoAnn Krebsbach. Congratulations and blessings to you, Helen, as we journey together -- ever drawing closer to God and living the Benedictine values!

* * * * *

In Loving Memory of Sister Neola Winter

Sister Neola Winter, 90, a member of the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Bismarck, entered eternal life Saturday, October 1, 2011, in a Garrison Memorial Hospital.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2011, in the Chapel of Annunciation Monastery. Visitation starts at 4:30 p.m. today (Sunday) at the monastery and continues until the time of the funeral. A wake service is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday in the monastery chapel.

Sister Neola was born July 12, 1921, in Bismarck to Leo and Christine (Lacher) Winter. She was the second of three daughters. She grew up in Bismarck and attended St. Mary’s Grade School and High School.

She was a teacher for several years prior to entering Annunciation Monastery in 1946. She made monastic profession July 1, 1948.

Sister Neola enjoyed children, especially encouraging them to read and expand their minds. She served 20 years as librarian at St. Mary’s Grade School and three years at Cathedral Grade School, both in Bismarck. She continued to share her love of reading as librarian at the monastery for nine years and as a volunteer for five years in the library of the Diocese of Bismarck. She also taught elementary grades in Catholic schools in Bismarck and Mandan and religious education throughout the Bismarck Diocese during the summers.

A pleasant and cheerful woman, Sister Neola had a ready smile and a heart full of gratitude for God and all the people in her life - her students, monastic community, family, friends and caregivers. She loved surprising people with little gifts, tokens of her affection. Her joyful spirit made people enjoy being in her presence.

Sister Neola delighted in recently celebrating her 90^th birthday at the monastery surrounded by cherished family, friends and her Benedictine sisters. “God has been extremely good to me and I am so grateful,” she said.

Sister Neola is survived by her sister, Cletes Hicks, Issaquah, Wash., nieces and nephews and the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery. Memorials may be made to Annunciation Monastery.

To share memories of Sister Neola, visit www.parkwayfuneral.com and sign the online guest book (Parkway Funeral Service, Bismarck).

* * * * *

Sister Kathleen's "Ministry on the Margins"

Sister Kathleen Atkinson's ministry takes her to the margins of society, where she strives to be a light for those who may not remember how to shine. Please enjoy her article which was published in the magazine, "The Liguorian."

http://www.liguorian.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=400:mentoring-on-the-margins&catid=22:christian-living-life-application&Itemid=29

* * * * *

Sister Madelyn and Sister Hannah Renew

First Monastic Profession

Sister Madelyn Louttit (left) and Sister Hannah Vanorny (right) sign the profession document in the presence of Prioress Sister Nancy Miller and the monastic community.

Sister Susan Lardy, director of women in initial formation, stands with Sister Madelyn, Sister Hannah and Sister Nancy Miller. "May God in loving kindness fulfill your hope. May God enable us all to be faithful to the monastic way of life and support you as sisters," Sister Nancy Miller, prioress.

Welcome Focus Missionaries!

We truly enjoyed getting to know the Focus missionaries who will be present to students on the University of Mary campus. They joined us for prayer, supper, a presentation on Benedictine history and values. We shared stories about our ministries and our desire to help others deepen their faith in God.

Some of the best stories are shared at table.

Friday night popcorn and pop with the sisters!

* * * * *

The Apple of Our Eyes!

Yesterday we picked apples, and picked apples and picked apples!

Thank you to the Fleckenstein's for sharing their beautiful harvest!

We were blessed by the presence of many

University of Mary students today!

9/20/11

Sister Gerard welcomes University of Mary students and shares some Benedictine history with them. We offer an open invitation to them to join the sisters for game nights, prayer and we offer ourselves as prayer partners

Sister Edith speaks to University of Mary students about pain and suffering through her personal experience with cancer. She talked about surrendering to God's will in difficult times, finding peace and ways the body can heal itself if one can relax, find joy and laughter.

When in Rome - eat gelatto!

(Far right: Sisters Nancy Gunderson and Thomas Welder with University of Mary students and Father James Shea, U-Mary president, enjoying the sites of Rome. Sister Nancy Gunderson is teaching students about the saints and Sister Thomas is teaching specifically on St. Benedict. Teachers and students will visit the sites of these saints while learning, journaling and meeting people of all cultures in this beautiful city and surrounding areas. Please keep them in your prayers!

Sister Rosemary DeGracia Makes First Monastic Profession

August 27, 2011

Sister Rosemary DeGracia signs the Profession Document in the presence of Prioress Sister Nancy Miller and Sister Susan Lardy, and the monastic community

Prioress Sister Nancy Miller presents the Benedictine pin to Sister Rosemary

The sisters extend their blessing upon Sister Rosemary

Sister Susan Lardy and Sister Rosemary DeGracia

Smiles and hugs abound as the sisters congratulate Sister Rosemary on her first Monastic Profession.

After the evening prayer/profession ceremony, the sisters gathered in the dining room for a wonderful meal and evening of warm celebration.

Reflection by Sister Nancy Miller, Prioress

First Monastic Profession of Sister Rosemary DeGracia

August 27, 2011

Sister Rosemary, welcome home. Yes, welcome home. Tonight as you make your first monastic profession as a sister of Annunciation Monastery we welcome you more deeply into our midst.

You have grown and had your heart stretched in many homes in your life – with your parents and your brother, with your husband, Ralph and five children, as a widow, grandmother and great-grandmother, as an oblate of St. Benedict and now here at Annunciation Monastery on the wind-swept prairies of North Dakota.

Esther de Waal in her book, “A Life-Giving Way,” emphasizes that the deepest need in all of us, is the need to come home. She explains, “ My most profound desire is to be at home, in all the senses that I understand it, home in my own inner self, at home in a place where I belong, at home in the family of the Church.”

Sister Rosemary, this is your monastic home. God has led you to us and we are grateful. You have already begun to put down roots in this monastery and are establishing life-giving relationships. It is in this solid foundation built on Jesus Christ that we will love you and support you. Here we journey to God together.

As we all know the journey to God, especially in our monastery, is not static or boring. In the Prologue, St. Benedict urges us to run while we have the light of life. For Benedict and for all of us, life is short. It is urgent that we move swiftly, hurry and run along the path of God’s commandments while we still have time. Some of us literally cannot run, but we can move quickly in our hearts to make God’s commandments a deeper part of who we are.

There is one essential commandment and from that all the others flow. It is the commandment to love God, others and ourselves. To grow in love takes a lifetime of transformation and change. It is what the monastic life is all about – running with hearts ever expanding toward the goal of life with Christ Jesus. We want to become women of love, joy and peace so our hearts are ready when God calls us to our heavenly home.

To do this we must daily die to ourselves and be raised again and again to a new and pure life of love. We just heard Jesus speak about this in the Gospel of Matthew. In fact all the Synoptic Gospels include this passage. Dying and rising daily is crucial to the Christian life.

In the Gospel Jesus tells his apostles that he must go to Jerusalem, to suffer, die and to be raised on the third day. Peter doesn’t like this talk and rebukes Jesus for even thinking such a thing. Jesus in turn sternly warns Peter to stop being an obstacle to him. He looks Peter in the eye and says with frustration, “You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.” Jesus doesn’t want anyone to prevent him from fulfilling his mission – to die and rise to open the doors to everlasting life. It is the greatest love story on earth.

Jesus then tells his disciples and that includes all of us, “if you want to be my follower, deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me.” Every Christian must do this in his or her way; monastics do it in the context of the common life. Daily we take up our individual crosses and follow in the way of love as Jesus did.

We rub shoulders with each other, praying, eating, working, playing, and caring for one another. Through our life together we challenge and inspire one another to become more Christ-like, more centered on Christ and not on ourselves. All of this involves a great degree of self-giving, and faithfully carrying our cross It is not easy, but together we can do it.

The reflection for this Sunday in the little booklet, “Living with Christ,” points out that “to be a Christian, to be on the journey of discipleship, is to have our life changed, to be led in unexpected ways.” I am sure, Sister Rosemary, you never expected to live in North Dakota and be at home in a monastery! But here you are – on the path which God is leading you.

However we encounter God, it means change. It might be through prayer, Scripture, a favorite hymn, the prairie sunset or through another person. As we travel along the unpredictable path of discipleship and allow ourselves to be open to the grace of God, we are led deeper into the Divine, deeper into our true self, deeper into home.

St Benedict puts it this way, “As we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God’s commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love.”

Sister Rosemary, come run with us toward God.

* * * * *

Sister Mariah Promoted to Professor Emerita

Congratulations to Sister Mariah Dietz! She was promoted to the rank of Professor Emerita in Nursing by the University of Mary at the "Honoring the Professoriate" ceremony! Sister Mariah, we love you for your faithful example in our monastic community, your generosity of spirit and wisdom in teaching and nursing -- and just for being you!

Sisters Bless Professoriate Procession

August 23, 2011

The sisters lined the path to welcome and bless the University of Mary professoriate.

The procession walks through the cloister walk and proceeds to Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel.

Father Victor Feser leads the way, followed by University of Mary president, Father James Patrick Shea. Annunciation Monastery prioress, Sister Nancy Miller, is pictured (far left).

Sister Nancy Miller greets the professors. Sister Nicole Kunze (in blue stole) is a chemistry professor. They are all smiles - what a beautiful way to start the school year!

Sister Nancy Gunderson (blue stole) and Sister JoAnn Krebsbach (red stole) both teach at the University of Mary.

* * * *

Welcome New Faculty at University of Mary

It was a joy to welcome new faculty at the University of Mary today! They joined our sisters for lunch and had a brief tour of Annunciation Monastery. They were commissioned by the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery to carry forth the mission and values through their leadership at the University of Mary. We keep all teachers and students in our prayers for a wonderful and blessed school year.

Sister Gemma toured new faculty around the monastery.

Sister Gemma points out some interesting facts about Marcel Breuer's architecture.

Sisters JoAnn, Agatha, Nancy M., Janet, Nicole and Thomas attended Sleepy Hollow's production of "Jesus Christ Superstar," with one of our dear friends, Marla.

A Joyful Spirit: Girls, God and Fun

July 30, 2011

We are busily preparing to host girls who are entering 6th, 7th and 8th grades for a day of celebrating God and friendship! They will meet our sisters and join us for prayer, do some fun crafts and recreational activities. We look forward to spending the day with them!

Sister Hannah has been baking dove cookies for "Girls, God and Fun," day at the monastery.

Dove cookies, waiting for their beaks to be frosted!

* * * * *

Happy Feast of St. Benedict: July 11

St. Benedict, the Father of Western monasticism, was born in Nursia, Italy and educated in Rome during times of great conflict and moral corruption. Fleeing the city to live life as a hermit in a cave in mountainous Subiaco, he delved into a life of spirituality and solitude until others convinced him to be abbot to a community of monks. Benedict's "Rule" for daily living was based on prayer, moderation, study, work and obedience. The "Rule of St. Benedict" continues to inspire Benedictines and others today as we strive to "Listen with the ear of our hearts," and receive all as Christ. Have a blessed day!

Welcome Seminarians of the Bismarck Diocese

We were blessed to have the seminarians from the Bismarck Diocese, and University of Mary President, Father James Shea, join us for noon prayer and lunch on June 29. Know that you are welcome here and we keep you in our prayers!

Annunciation Monastery Offers Place of Peace During Flood

The Sisters of Annunciation Monastery invite anyone who is impacted by the flood to a quiet, peaceful space at the monastery, to rest in God's healing love.

"During times like these, we can start to feel displaced physically, emotionally and spiritually," says Prioress Sister Nancy Miller. "We offer our home as a prayerful place where people can come and spend a few hours, a day, or overnight, as space permits. We want our guests to have some private space and regain a sense of centeredness, healing and hope. Guests are welcome to spend time in our chapel or a guest room, visit or pray with one of our sisters, and enjoy our outdoor labyrinth and walking paths."

The Sisters of Annunciation Monastery keep all who are impacted by the flood in prayer each day. Please contact Sister Gemma Peters at 701-255-1520 to make arrangements to spend some time in retreat at the monastery. There is no charge. Advance notice is required.

* * * * *

50th Jubilee Celebration

Reflection ~ Sister Nancy Miller, Prioress

June 18, 2011

It is with great joy and gratitude that today we celebrate the 50th jubilee of monastic profession of Benedictine women of Annunciation Monastery, Sister Thomas, Sister Donna, Sister JoAnn and Sister Agnes. As I mentioned also in my welcoming remarks we remember Sister Mary Walker who is unable to be with us today. We give thanks to God for our jubilarians who have faithfully lived the Benedictine way of prayer, community and service day in and day out.

You add zest and vitality to our monastic community and are women of wisdom, understanding and gentleness. You have contributed your talents and time for the good of the God’s people as administrators, educators, nurses, and pastoral ministers. All of us gathered here in this chapel - your families, friends, colleagues and especially the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery rejoice with you.

We give thanks for your presence among us for the past 50 years. We are truly blest that you said "yes" to follow Jesus through the monastic way.

The readings you chose for this Eucharist are rich and meaningful. In the Gospel Jesus calls all of us to love as He did, to lay down our lives for one another. Whatever life vocation we are called to, Jesus asks us to love and care for people, to give our lives for the good of others.

To be love faithfully over a lifetime is not easy. St. Paul, in his letter to the Colossians offers us a guide for loving by telling us to put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience - bearing with one another and forgiving one another. ---- These virtues are difficult to live out in whatever vocation God has chosen for us. But they are essential if we are to love as Jesus loved.

Sisters Thomas, Donna, JoAnn and Agnes, you are witnesses that it is possible to remain faithful to our life commitment. In your own way, you each follow Jesus in the way of love. You listened to God’s voice and followed where you were led.

Sister Thomas as president of the University of Mary for 31 years and now as president emerita, you truly are an example of servant leadership. You have given your life to promoting and expanding the university as a place where students can grow in their academic, cultural and spiritual lives. You don't call attention to yourself, but to the success of University of Mary graduates. You are also a regional and national leader committed to the good of the people of North Dakota and beyond. We appreciate the many ways you contribute to community life at Annunciation Monastery – Chair of the sponsorship group, choir director, organist, and faithful witness to Gospel living. We are inspired by your deep faith and hope, your love of people and your great sense of humor. We are blessed to have you, Sister Thomas.

Sister Donna, as a nurse and nurse educator, you show us what it means to truly care for people around the clock - especially those who are sick. You were well respected by your students – when we encounter them at the hospital they are quick to say how you were their favorite teacher. When emergencies come up at the monastery, you are always there to respond. Your patience, genuine concern for others and your nursing skills mean a lot to us. By your gentle and prayerful presence, you are an inspirational role model for us. We also appreciate your enthusiasm for sports. Win or lose, you cheer for the Marauders, Minnesota Twins and the Vikings. Sister Donna, you are a cheerleader in so many ways in our monastic community. We are grateful for you.

Sister JoAnn, you create community wherever you are. Your sense of humor, ability to bring out the best in people and your willingness to stand by and support others brings us joy. As theology educator, chair of the University of Mary theology division for 24 years and now as subprioress of our community, you reach out to others in love. You enjoy teaching and watching students grow to their full potential. You also love our monastic community life and we appreciate all you do to foster that among us. Sister JoAnn, you are a delightful, wise woman for whom we are grateful.

Sister Agnes, as nurse, educator, chaplain in hospitals, in parish outreach at the Cathedral parish and as a volunteer law enforcement chaplain for the Bismarck Police Department, you have and continue to reach out and comfort people who are sick, hurting, and grieving. Your gentle smile and words of prayer and support help others bear their sufferings. As a spiritual director, you walk with others on their faith journey. You are a kind, prayerful and outgoing woman of faith, committed to carrying out the healing mission of Jesus. Sister Agnes, for you, we give thanks.

In a few moments we will hear these four remarkable women recommit themselves to the monastic life through the threefold promise of stability, fidelity to the monastic life and obedience.

Through the promise of stability, we Sisters of Annunciation Monastery live our entire lives with this particular group of women, in this community, in this place. Stability invites us to grow deep roots with each other and the people of the prairie. This is home for us. This is where we strive to further the mission of Jesus.

By the promise of fidelity to the monastic way of life, we commit ourselves to keep on growing in the Benedictine way - to open ourselves continually to the transforming grace of God - to remain committed to deepening our monastic lifestyle for as long as we live.

Obedience means listening, listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit in the Scriptures, in the Rule of St. Benedict, in the prioress and in one another. We listen to those we serve; we listen to the call of the Church. We listen and then respond in obedience to what we hear.

Sisters Thomas, Donna, JoAnn and Agnes, after 50 years you understand more concretely what it means to live out your monastic profession. There certainly have been hills and valleys in your lives. But with the Lord’s help and the love of others, you have persevered and will continue to progress in this way of life.

St Benedict says in his Rule, “As we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God’s commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love.” May your hearts overflow with love as you continue on the Benedictine way to everlasting life.

Sisters Thomas, Donna, JoAnn and Agnes, as you renew your commitment to the monastic life, we pray for you - that you may grow more deeply in the love of Jesus -- that you continue to spread that love to others. And that you continue to serve as role models to those who come after you. God bless you and God bless all of us.

A Pharmacist in the Family!

Congratulations to Sister Melissa Cote, who graduated from Creighton University as a pharmacist. We are so happy for you and wish you the best in your healing ministry at St. Alexius Medical Center!

* * * * *

Funeral Reflection for Sister Ralphine Fried -

by Prioress, Sister Nancy Miller, June 11, 2011

It is an understatement to say that Sister Ralphine is missed by all of us - and I do mean all of us - her monastic community, her family and all who knew and loved her. She was a precious woman - gentle, grateful and gracious. She loved us and we knew it. She prayed for us, was concerned for us and took an interest in all we did. Her ministries always involved caring for others whether it was cooking, doing the laundry, or making rosaries and crocheting baby blankets for the poor.

Even up until a few months ago, she was often in chapel praying for others and rarely if ever missed Morning, Noon or Evening Prayer. It was a joy to be in her presence. With great fondness, we remember her engaging smile, her genuine care for us and her gratefulness for all we did for her. A part of us wishes that she still be here with us. Yes, we truly miss her.

But even as we grieve the loss of Sister Ralphine's presence among us, we rejoice with her because she believed in Jesus' promise of life everlasting. Baptized into God's family, she followed Jesus in the way of love. As she believed so do we believe that she is raised with Him to a life that never ends. Not someday but now.

We believe that now Sister Ralphine is seeing God face to face. This gentle woman is glowing in the warm embrace of God. The reading from Job reinforces this belief when he says, "I know that my Vindicator lives, and that he will at last stand forth upon the dust; Whom I myself shall see: my own eyes, not another’s shall behold him, and from my flesh I shall see God". How powerful these words are as we know of the struggle that Sister Ralphine had with her diminished eyesight during her lifetime.

In the Church year, we are coming to end of the Easter season during which we celebrate Jesus' rising from the dead. He appeared to His disciples and told them to go and spread the Good News. He loved them and said he was going to prepare a place for them so that where Jesus is; those who follow Him would be too. We believe Sister Ralphine is in that heavenly kingdom, in the place in which Jesus prepared for her. We all know of the sufferings she experienced in her last days on earth. In a mysterious way, she shared in the sufferings of Christ and by doing so helped people throughout the world in a way she only now realizes.

Like St. Paul in today's reading, Sister Raphine wanted to know Christ with all her heart and to know the power of His resurrection. She yearned for Christ, her heart's delight.

Next summer would have been her 75th anniversary as a Benedictine sister. She spent 74 years seeking God with all her heart. She allowed herself to be molded into a person of love through the ups and downs of her life. She devoted herself to God and to God’s people. She was faithful - faithful to the end.

To be sure, the day of her death was not the end. It was the beginning of a new and radiant life with God. St. Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians says no eye has seen, no ear has heard.... what God has prepared for those who love him. Sister Ralphine trusted completely in God’s love and care for her. She longed for this day and spoke freely about how she was ready to be with God. You could sense the peace and joy she had knowing that she would one day be with God forever.

We pray for Sister Ralphine and we also ask God to help us to be ready to meet Jesus when he comes for us. Like Sister Ralphine may all of us know and trust in God’s love and care of us.

Sister Ralphine, you now know what God has prepared for those who love Him. We can just imagine your face - radiant with joy with that precious smile of yours. You are saying to us. "Don't worry about me. I am happy. I am with God. There is nothing greater than that."

Sister Ralphine, even though we miss you here, we know you will always be with us in spirit. We rejoice with you. Thank you for sharing your life with us. And we continue to rely on your prayers for us.

Reflection for Sr. Ralphine Fried's Wake Service

June 9, 2011

Sister Gerard Wald, OSB

I want to extend a sincere welcome to members of Sr. Ralphine's family, the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, and friends who have gathered here this evening.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the Kingdom of God... Blessed are the pure of heart for they shall see God." Mt. 5:3,8. These words from the
Sermon on the Mount describe Sister Ralphine's spirit. She was a woman truly blessed with grace and favor before God.

Who was Sr. Ralphine and what is it about her that calls us to celebrate her life this evening?

Sr. Ralphine was surrounded by a loving family, a family to whom she was faithful and who were faithful to her. She enjoyed your frequent visits, and with true Benedictine hospitality always made sure she had a treat available for you. She enjoyed having the children come. I can hear her say with Jesus, "let the children come to me." Mt. 13:1 One of the things that Sr. Ralphine enjoyed was inviting her family out to share our cabin. In turn she engaged them in keeping our cabin in good shape. Yes, she loved to sit in the swing behind the cabin. It was one of her favorite places.

She entered St. Benedict's Monastery, St. Joseph, Minnesota and made her first vows in 1937, almost 74 years ago. Her autobiography states that, although her two older sisters had entered monastic life, her decision was not especially influenced by their example. However, when she was a child, she dreamed that she was a Sister wearing a pink habit, not a black one. This might explain why she frequently wore her favorite pink sweater and why she is wearing a pink blouse now.

Her religious life can be described in one word with many meanings, that word is faithfulness. Her faithfulness to the monastic life was expressed every day as she made her way to chapel to pray the Liturgy of the Hours-she never missed unless she was sick. Also many times she led the afternoon rosary for those in need.

Her faithfulness to community life was expressed by attending community meetings and participating as much as she could. She balanced her life with personal and communal prayer, work, and community living. Her work consisted of cooking, gardening, housekeeping and laundry. She also served as the Administrator of St. Benedict's Home in Dickinson for 11 years.

She embraced change with an open heart and mind. In 1967 she became an adult learner when at the age of 53 she obtained her GED and attended St. Joseph's Hospital Nursing Program in Dickinson and became a licensed practical nurse (LPN). After that she cared for elderly in nursing care facilities at Garrison Hospital, St. Vincent's Care Center and the Annunciation Monastery Health Center. More recently, her ministry consisted of crocheting blankets and afghans for the poor and making rosaries to be distributed throughout the world. As recently as this last semester she taught a University of Mary student how to make rosaries who in turn taught other students. So her ministry continues on.

After we got through praying the rosary for her the night before she died, I reflected on the rosaries that she made and how those rosaries are prayed by people throughout the globe. Although she was retired she never retired from being of service to the poor. I can just imagine the many grateful hearts of those who are keeping warm with her blankets and afghans.

Sr. Ralphine had an intense interest in what was happening around her. She would ask with great concern about what was happening in our sponsored institutions and always promised to pray for those who minister there.

These last years had become more challenging for her. Her partial loss of eyesight and hearing became a trial for her, but she dealt with it well. I can imagine her praying with St. Peter in tonight's reading, "In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials, so that your faith, being more precious than gold, though perishable, is tested by fire, and may be found to result in praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." I Peter 6-7.

We know by our faith that Sr. Ralphine lived a full spiritual life, and that when she died on June 7th she parked her walker outside Heaven's gates and entered. She took her proper place in her heavenly choir stall and started praising God, singing alleluias with full heart and voice with all the angels and saints, as she had for the last 97 years of her life. Sr. Ralphine may God embrace you with his eternal love and peace. Sr. Ralphine, pray for us as we do for you. We miss you.

In Loving Memory of Sister Ralphine Fried, OSB

Sister Ralphine Fried, 97, a founding member of the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Bismarck, entered eternal life Tuesday, June 7, 2011, at a Bismarck care center.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 11 at the Chapel of Annunciation Monastery. Visitation starts at 3:00 p.m. Thursday at the monastery until the time of the funeral. A wake service is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Friday, June 10 at the monastery.

Sister Ralphine was born January 4, 1914, in Mandan, N.D., to Jacob and Eva (Aman) Fried and given the name, Margaret. When she became a sister, she changed her name to Ralphine, after her beloved brother, Ralph, who died very young. She is the seventh in a family of five girls and three boys. The family farmed and worked hard to care for and support five nieces and nephews who were orphaned during the difficult times of drought and depression.

Sister Ralphine entered St. Benedict’s Monastery, St. Joseph, Minn., in 1935 and made monastic profession in 1937. When she had the opportunity to return to North Dakota, she transferred her religious commitment to the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery when they became an independent community in 1947.

Sister Ralphine’s ministries always involved caring for others, whether it was through the wonderful food she cooked or in the attention she gave to her roles in housekeeping and laundry. She served in these capacities in Richmond, Minn.; Eau Claire, Wis., and was a cook at St. Mary’s Convent in Bismarck. She worked at St. Alexius Hospital for nine years and for two years at St. Benedict’s Home in Dickinson. She went on to serve as superior and administrator of St. Benedict’s for eleven years.

In 1967, Sister Ralphine’s next healing ministry began at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Dickinson where she became a licensed practical nurse (LPN). She worked as an LPN at Garrison Hospital, Garrison; St. Vincent’s Nursing Home, Bismarck; and at Annunciation Monastery’s health center. Whenever time allowed, Sister Ralphine would pursue volunteer endeavors at St. Alexius. She was a firm believer in the Benedictine motto, “ora et labora,” which means “prayer and work,” and always looked for ways to serve others.

Although Sister Ralphine saw many changes in religious life over the years, she welcomed the changes in recognizing, “It would be impossible to live religious life the way it used to be lived and engage in the ministries of today.” With God’s grace, she accepted her physical limitations. Sister Ralphine will be remembered for her gentle smile, peaceful spirit, her faithfulness to the Liturgy of the Hours, Eucharist and the rosary. She was always gracious and keenly interested in current events and activities of the monastic community. She lived with gratitude for all God had given her and she made it a priority to use her gifts to serve the poor through her beautiful crocheted baby blankets and afghans which she donated. She could often be seen in the early morning hours at her chair, serenely crocheting or making rosaries. This heartwarming presence will surely be missed. Her hand-strung rosaries traveled to missions around the world; it was her desire to help people pray and grow closer to God. Sister Ralphine had a deep love for children and was delighted by visits from her family members. She would eagerly await their arrival, making sure she had treats to offer them in true “Benedictine hospitality” style.

Sister Ralphine is survived by her many extended family members and friends, and the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery. She was preceded in death by her sisters: Sisters Clement and Lucilda, Odelia (Weber), Clementina (Regner) and her brothers, Joseph, Peter and Ralph.

Memorials may be made to Annunciation Monastery.

To share memories of Sister Ralphine, visit www.parkwayfuneral.com and sign the online guest book (Parkway Funeral Service, Bismarck).

* * * * *

Annunciation Monastery Sisters Celebrate

50 Years of Monastic Profession

(Standing, lt. to rt.: Sisters JoAnn Krebsbach, Donna Johnson, Thomas Welder. Seated: Sisters Mary Walker and Agnes Reinert)

The public is invited to attend the 50^th Jubilee celebration of five Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Bismarck, on Sat., June 18, at Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel (Benedictine Center for Servant Leadership). Eucharistic Liturgy will be held at 1:30 p.m., followed by a reception from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m.

Marking their 50^th anniversaries of monastic profession are: Sister Thomas Welder, Sister Mary Walker, Sister Donna Johnson, Sister JoAnn Krebsbach and Sister Agnes Reinert. Sister Mary Walker’s Jubilee celebration will be held at St. Vincent’s Care Center at a later date.

“Jubilee is the anniversary celebration of when our sisters entered religious life,” explains Sister Nancy Miller, prioress of Annunciation Monastery. “It is a blessed time when we publicly express our gratitude for their faithfulness to God’s call and how they minister out of that call. A special Mass is a part of this celebration and includes a renewing of vows by each jubilarian. We give thanks to those who came before us and those who will continue the mission of Jesus in the future. We invite the public to join us in this joyful celebration.”

Sister Thomas Welder - The concept of servant leadership has always been part of the family life of Sister Thomas Welder. A native of Napoleon, ND, but growing up in Bismarck, she was the first of three children born to the late Sebastian and Mary Ann (Kuhn) Welder. “My parents were drawn to religion and committed to their parish and Catholic education,” she says.

The blending of faith and education began early when she attended Cathedral Elementary School and St. Mary’s Central High School. She loved school and the Benedictine Sisters who taught her had a very strong and positive influence on her life. Throughout her childhood and teen years, Sister Thomas considered following in the path of her aunts and teachers, who were sisters. The thoughts would “come and go” until God’s call was reignited in her freshman year at the College of St. Benedict, St. Joseph, MN. She recalls, “Somehow, in a rather ordinary, yet mysterious way, God was calling me to a life of prayer and service,” with the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery.

Sister Thomas made her first vows on July 11, 1961 and her perpetual monastic profession was on July 11, 1964. She received her bachelor’s degree in music from the College of St. Scholastica, Duluth, MN. Her ministry as choir director at Mary College tied into her gifts, interest and natural leanings toward music. She went on to earn a Master’s of Music at Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, and chaired Mary College’s Humanities Division.

Sister Thomas served in development at the University of Mary (then Mary College) prior to being inaugurated its’ fifth president in 1978.

Highlights of her 31 years as university president include: the development and expansion of many programs including the beginning of master’s programs, achieving university status and the announcement of “America’s Leadership University,” the doctoral degree program in physical therapy, the development of the Harold Schafer Leadership Center, the Christian Leadership Center and the Gary Tharaldson School of Business as well as the School of Accelerated and Distance Education and the move to National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II and the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference. She received North Dakota’s highest honor in 2004 when she was presented the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award. She continues her commitment to service as president emerita and as chair of Annunciation Monastery’s Sponsorship Group.

As for her 50 years of being a Benedictine, Sister Thomas says, “The greatest gift of being in community is seeking God together and striving to walk the way of the living gospel through prayer and service. By being wholly present to God in the ordinary unfolding of life, we are renewed and enlivened by the extravagant love God has for each of us.”

Sister Donna Johnson - A native of Washburn, ND, Sister Donna is the second of eight children born to the late Loraine Jennings and Alma Victoria (Krebsbach). While growing up, she entertained thoughts of being a coach because of her love of sports. It wasn’t until she was approached by her hometown priest who asked if she’d ever considered becoming a sister that she considered a call to religious life.

As Sister Donna considered her own call to religious life, she also began to realize she could be a coach of sorts—encouraging others through nursing and later in teaching. Her natural qualities of love, patience and respect fit very well into her lifelong ministry as nurse and teacher.

Sister Donna made her first vows as a Sister of Annunciation Monastery on July 11, 1961, and made perpetual monastic profession on July 11, 1964. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of Mary and her master’s in nursing at Texas Women’s University. She served as a nurse at both St. Alexius and Garrison Memorial Hospitals. Sister Donna was an associate professor at the University of Mary for many years, teaching medical/surgical nursing students. From 1984-1989, Sister Donna served her monastic community as subprioress, during which time she was also a patient representative at St. Alexius.

Since retiring from teaching at the University of Mary in 2006, Sister Donna serves in the health center of Annunciation Monastery. She loves to pray the Liturgy of the Hours and can often be seen walking the monastery grounds while praying her daily rosary.

“Relating with people is the most powerful thing I’ve learned over these past 50 years of being a sister,” says Sister Donna. “I love living in community with others who seek God. I accept people very easily and it’s important to me to respect and care for others.”

Sister JoAnn Krebsbach - Sister JoAnn, was raised in Washburn, ND, and is the fourth of 14 children born to the late Earl and Montana (Johnson) Krebsbach. Religion was very important in the Krebsbach family and Sister JoAnn recalls the Benedictine sisters who taught her in vacation Bible school. She knew at an early age that she was interested in religious life because the sisters seemed to love what they were doing. “Their example of faith, joy and community appealed to me and I knew I wanted to do something like that with my life.”

Sister JoAnn made her first vows on July 11, 1961 and made perpetual monastic profession July 11, 1964. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy-Theology and Social-Behavioral Science from the University of Mary in 1965 and did Graduate Study in English at the University of Nebraska and in Theology at Notre Dame University. She earned her Master of Science in Education from Northern State College and a Master of Ministry from Seattle University.

Sister JoAnn taught elementary and junior high students for twelve years and enjoyed serving as religious educator and youth minister at Corpus Christi Parish, Bismarck. In 1980, she began her ministry at the University of Mary, pioneering the Pastoral Ministry major. Her enthusiasm for teaching was evidenced by her 30 years of teaching a variety of courses at the University of Mary. Sister JoAnn also served as chair of the university’s Philosophy/Theology division for 24 years.

“I have always felt called to teach,” says Sister JoAnn. “To watch students learn and grow into their full potential is so rewarding. I love my students and tell them each year that they are my best class – because they are. I always learn from them and pray for their success in life.”

Sister JoAnn was appointed subprioress of Annunciation Monastery in 2008 by Prioress Sister Nancy Miller. She serves her monastic community through her loving attentiveness to the details of daily life. She is also a member of the University of Mary’s Board of Trustees and Annunciation Monastery’s Sponsorship Group. Committed to her call to teach, Sister JoAnn teaches one course each semester at the University of Mary.

“These past 50 years have been enriched with the gift of living in community,” says Sister JoAnn. “We seek God together and support one another in our faith. Community means that we live together, pray together, eat together and share each other’s joys and sorrows. This is a blessing we want to share with all who are a part of our Benedictine family, as well as with other women who are interested in monastic life.”

Sister Agnes Reinert - Do what you can, with joy, and with love. This mantra is the inspiration behind Sister Agnes’ life and ministries as a Benedictine Sister of Annunciation Monastery.

Sister Agnes was born in Mott, ND, the third of six children born to Nick (deceased) and Catherine (Frank) Reinert. While in high school, one of her teachers asked her to write down three choices for her professional life, she easily wrote, “nurse, teacher, sister.” Little did she know God would call her to be all three of those choices.

As a student in the St. Alexius Nurses Training Program, Sister Agnes talked with a sister who helped her become aware of God’s call in her life. “This awareness of ‘call’ motivated my desire for a deeper spiritual life,” she says. Sister Agnes made her first monastic profession on July 11, 1961 and her perpetual monastic profession July 11, 1964.

Her ministries include a variety of nursing positions at St. Alexius and Garrison Memorial Hospitals and as chaplain of those hospitals. As a nursing supervisor and head nurse in these positions, she enjoyed teaching the healing mission of Jesus. She also served as an instructor for licensed practical nurses. She received her master’s in theology from St. Louis, MO. Sister Agnes spent several years as supervisor in training CPE in Rochester, MN; San Antonio, TX; and La Crosse, WI.

Sister Agnes served as an instructor of Theology, Independent Studies at the University of Mary prior to becoming a volunteer law enforcement chaplain for the Bismarck Police Department for nine years. She is a certified spiritual director and does parish outreach for Cathedral parish.

“Over the past 50 years, I have learned that it is God’s love and faithfulness that sustains my trust in this way of life. I have also learned that my response in faithfulness and forgiveness is essential to living together in community.”

Sister Mary Walker - With a love of learning and a genuine interest in people, Sister Mary Walker is well remembered by many of the students she taught and mentored over the years. Sister Mary grew up in Mott, ND, the fourth of seven children born to the late William and Lillian (Behrenfeld) Walker. Her teachers were often sisters who influenced her life both at St. Mary’s High School and Mount Marty College, Yankton, SD.

An instructor at Priory High School for six years, Sister Mary taught courses in English, American History and drama. She often wrote and produced original Advent and Lenten dramas where her students were the cast. Sister Mary was touched when several of her beloved students returned to the Priory High reunion in 2008 and shared precious memories about those dramas.

She attended graduate school at St. Louis University, MO, and received her master’s degree in social work. Upon returning to the monastery, she worked in social services and got involved in religious education, teaching summer courses and confirmation programs at the University of Mary (then Mary College). She found these ministries to be very life-giving and holy. She often offered these words of delight and affirmation to her creative writers, “It is a masterpiece!”

Sister Mary calls her years as assistant professor of Theology at the University of Mary some of the best years of her life. She says, “I loved the opportunity to meet and teach so many wonderful students. I consider it a real honor to have been a part of their lives and feel it is of the utmost importance to honor the experiences we share with one another.”

Sister Mary says she’s very grateful for these past 50 years as a Benedictine Sister of Annunciation Monastery. “Being a sister calls me to look at this life as the privilege to serve; I feel I’ve been extremely blessed.”

Prayer for Victims of Natural Disaster

At Home and Around the World

Dear Lord,

Please hear the prayers of your people, in this region and around the world, who are suffering during these times of great trial. We ask that you bless us with the courage, faith, physical and financial resources to do what we can to help ease these burdens.

Please grant us the strength and wisdom to coordinate the efforts necessary to deal with the flooding in Bismarck and all of the areas affected. Protect all who are and will be impacted by this devastating situation and those who are diligently working to provide help where it is needed. We place our trust in you, Lord.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Gary P. Miller is Named New President and

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

of St. Alexius Medical Center on May 25, 2011

Prioress Sister Nancy Miller, president of the St. Alexius Board of Directors, and John Castleberry, chairman of the St. Alexius Board of Directors, introduce the new president and CEO of St. Alexius Medical Center, Gary P. Miller. The Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery keep Gary, and all who serve at St. Alexius Medical Center, in prayer as together, we strive to continue the Medical Center's mission to, "Let all be received as Christ."

St. Alexius staff and sponsors, the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, await the announcement.

* * * * *

Tulips in the monastery flower bed. Photo by Sister Nicole Kunze.

We wish you a blessed Holy Week and a

Very Happy Easter! May God's goodness fill your

heart with peace and joy - always!

Sister Miriam, Sister Frances, nurse Cheryle, Sister Rose and Sister Madonna display their freshly colored Easter eggs.

Sister JoAnn enjoys a lovely Easter Lily which was delivered to the sisters today!

Sisters Rosemary and Gemma were hard at work creating these little masterpieces, hot cross buns. On Holy Saturday, Sister Gemma distributes little chicks made out of bread dough and serves them with hot chocolate.

Reflection From the Prioress, Sister Nancy Miller

at the funeral of Sister Joanne Graham - April 16, 2011

On behalf of the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery and Sister Joanne’s family, I again want to thank you for being here today. It is comforting and meaningful to us to have you share in this celebration and remembrance of Sister Joanne’s life. She was a special gift to all of us and we will greatly miss her presence among us.

It is fitting that our celebration of Sister Joanne’s life is in this chapel in the Benedictine Center for Servant Leadership - for that was who she was - a servant leader who gave all she had to whatever she was asked to do.

The Gospel she chose for her funeral is about giving one’s life in the service of others as Jesus did. If a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it bears much fruit, says Jesus. “Whoever serves me must follow me,” Sister Joanne bore much fruit by laying down her life and following Jesus in the service of others.

She used her exceptional leadership skills for the good of many people including our monastic community, the Federation of St. Benedict, St. Alexius Medical Center, the University of Mary, the dioceses of Bismarck and St. Cloud as well as the civic community.

Sister Susan Hutchens, president of the Federation of St. Benedict, who could not be with us today, asked me to extend her gratitude for Sr. Joanne’s 30 plus years of service to the federation. Sister Joanne served on the Juridic Committee for 24 of those years where she participated in the creation and revision of the canonical documents that govern the federation which resulted in Rome’s decree of approval. Sr. Joanne as a canon lawyer, also provided advice to members of the federation on a variety of matters. Her presence as well as her store of wisdom and experience will be missed.”

Dr. Nick Neumann, Sister Joanne’s physician and good friend, says of Sister Joanne, “For me, to be able to learn from the wisdom of a strong, intelligent, well-respected successful hospital leader-administrator was an important blessing and an invaluable source of support.”

A long-time colleague wrote, “Sr. Joanne played an integral role in transparency, reporting, monitoring and striving to always improve the care provided at St. Alexius Medical Center. Sr. Joanne's vision, passion and desire to "do things right" contributed greatly to the communities served.”

It is true – Sister Joanne was one of those visionary leaders who could see the bigger picture. She knew the reality of the day yet could name what would be needed in a future that many of us could not even imagine. It was a rare gift she shared with us for which we are most grateful. Sister Joanne helped guide our monastic community, the diocese and our sponsored ministries into the future.

A woman of deep faith, strength and perseverance, Sister Joanne was one of the pillars of our monastery. She loved the Benedictine life and gave herself entirely to it. We could count on her to participate in our common life, in community prayer, in meetings and special events, in helping with the cooking and dishwashing when she was able, and just being there for us. She was a monastic woman through and through. Even when her health began to wane and her breathing became labored, she pushed herself to participate in our life as much as possible.

She also gave of herself to help further our Benedictine charism in our sponsored institutions by promoting and guiding a new model for our Ministry of Sponsorship. We want our Benedictine mission and values to continue at St. Alexius, Garrison Memorial Hospital and the University of Mary. Sister Joanne was one who saw that a new vision of sponsorship needed to include our colleagues to more effectively understand and spread the Benedictine charism. This was important to her and it is important to us. We are grateful for her leadership in helping establish this new model of sponsorship. Now it is our task to keep it going.

The day before Sister Joanne died we had the Sunday Gospel of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. Many of us couldn’t help but think of Sister Joanne as we meditated on that reading. Before calling forth Lazarus from the tomb, Jesus tells Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and every one who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Martha replied, as Sister Joanne would have, “Yes Lord I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God.”

The story goes on to describe how Jesus commands that the stone be rolled away from the tomb. Then he cries out in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out.” Lazarus staggers out of the tomb, still bound with strips of burial cloth. Jesus says, “Untie him and let him go.”

And that is how the story ends. We don’t know what happened after they untied Lazarus. Patricia Livingston in a devotional booklet called ‘Living Faith” uses an obscure play by Eugene O’Neill to describe what might have occurred. In the play, Jesus and Lazarus look at each other for a long time. Then Jesus smiles and Lazarus begins to laugh “There is no death! There is only life!” he shouts. “No death, only life.”

Can’t you just hear Sister Joanne reassuring us - “Don’t cry for me, there is no death, there is only life. I am fully breathing in this wonderful eternal life with Jesus. Rejoice with me.”

Sister Joanne, we do rejoice with you. You have gained your heart’s desire: to live in the house of the Lord all the days of your life. We thank God for your presence, love and powerful witness of servant leadership. You will live on in our hearts and memories forever.

REFLECTION FOR THE VIGIL OF SISTER JOANNE GRAHAM

- Kathleen Atkinson, osb

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2011

My dearest Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, especially you Sister Lawrence, Joanne's classmate of over 50 years; Charlie her brother, Benedictines from Sacred Heart Monastery, St Benedicts Monastery, St Scholastica Monastery, St martin's Monastery, School Sisters of Notre Dame, colleagues from St Alexius, Garrison Memorial Hospital, the University of Mary, the Diocese of Bismarck, the Diocese of St Cloud.

Friends. Thank you for being here tonight to celebrate the life of someone we admired and loved - Sister Joanne Graham.

Sister Joanne asked that we share memories of her in the cafeteria after the service. She wanted the focus now to be on the Scripture, the Psalmody, on our redeeming Lord, and on the culmination of her monastic journey - life in Christ. Can't you just hearing her saying to us, "People, I hope you listened to the Scripture I selected. These are words I want you to hear."

And so, please listen again to some of the verses which spoke to me. There's this - I am go to prepare a place for you, so that where I am you may be also.

How often these last years people have gone ahead to prepare a place for Sister Joanne:

· The public affairs staff of the University of Mary meeting her at the door with a wheelchair so she could attend board meetings

· Sister Renee driving her to St Alexius an hour before Mass so she could take the necessary time to walk down the hall, regain her strength, and be ready to participate.

· The health care Sisters of the monastery assuring extra oxygen so she could take part in community activities

· I've had the gift to be able to scope out parking lots, reserve a table close to the door and establish readiness with a waiter so that we could go out to lunch at the Olive Garden or Woodhouse or Dairy Queen.

Why did we prepare a place?

So that where we were, she also may be.

So that her keen intellect could challenge and comfort

her smile and gentle laugh could light up the moment

her graciousness and dignity could immediately reveal the strong woman within

And now, we who have known Sister Joanne throughout her lifetime have prepared her for the ultimate welcome by the One she loves above all else. The One who loves her. God who created her in all her uniqueness, who stood by her in the beauty and the pain of her journey with us, now asks us to let go that she may enter fully into the place that Jesus, her Lord and Savior, has prepared for her.

How beautiful. How painful.

My Dad and Sister Joanne have been friends and colleagues for 45 years. When I called Dad to tell him of Sister Joanne's death, he said a simple phrase that I have heard echoed in various ways by others - "I wish I could have had one more conversation with her."

How many of us, likewise, wish we could have one more conversation with her - because we know it would not be trivial. How many of us wish we could have one more meeting in which to rely on her directness, even if it is towards us - because we know that she not only expected much of others, she expected it of herself. How many of us wish for one more time to come to prayer: see her, hear her, and be reminded of the cost of faithfulness.

And what would Sister Joanne Graham say?

She would simply say "Well, Do it. Now." Live with intensity. Push the boundaries.

Have the conversations that matter. Stay true to your commitments.

Believe the words in this scripture I have chosen for tonight: " Do not let your hearts be troubled; believe in God; believe also in me. I am the way and the truth and the life."

What would Sister Joanne Graham say?

Jesus is the way - but you must choose to walk it.

Jesus is the truth - you must choose to speak it.

Jesus is the life - each of you must choose how you want to live it.

Thank you, Sister Joanne, for living life with such conviction and faithfulness.

We are better people for having lived with you.

In Loving Memory

Sister Joanne Graham, OSB

Sister Joanne Graham, 76, a member of the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Bismarck, entered eternal life Monday, April 11, 2011, at a Bismarck care facility.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 16 in the Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel in the Benedictine Center for Servant Leadership. A wake service is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 15 in the Chapel of Annunciation Monastery.

Sister Joanne served in leadership positions for 50 years as a monastic woman. She was a nurse, nurse educator, hospital administrator, prioress of Annunciation Monastery, chancellor of the Bismarck Diocese and vice chancellor of the Diocese of St. Cloud, Minn.

She was born March 8, 1935, in Hot Springs, S.D. to Edmund A. and Eunice F. (Kinghorn) Graham and given the name, Rita. She grew up with a younger brother, Charles.

While earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing from St. Louis University, St. Louis, Mo., she felt a tugging at her heart to try religious life and was drawn to the Benedictine charism. Shortly after graduation in 1958, she boarded a plane to a place she had never seen before - Annunciation Monastery and the prairies of North Dakota. Here she began life as a Benedictine sister and received the name Joanne. She made monastic profession July 11, 1960.

After teaching in the St. Alexius School of Nursing and working in obstetric nursing, she was asked to earn a master’s degree in hospital administration from St. Louis University and was appointed administrator of St. Alexius Medical Center in 1966, a position she held for 10 years.

Then she was elected prioress of Annunciation Monastery in 1976. After completing her term as prioress, she served as associate administrator at St. Alexius. In 1986 she was appointed vice chancellor of the Bismarck Diocese by Bishop John F. Kinney and later became chancellor of the Diocese, serving in that post until 2003. Sister Joanne earned a pontifical degree in canon law in 1988 from The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. At the time she became chancellor, she was one of only six women in the United States to fill that position in the Catholic Church. She also served from 2005 to 2006 as vice chancellor of the Diocese of St. Cloud.

Sister Joanne worked with canonical matters for the Federation of St. Benedict and Annunciation Monastery, was a certified spiritual director and chaired the Annunciation Monastery Sponsorship Group. She served as a member of the University of Mary Board of Trustees for 30 years and was awarded an honorary doctorate in leadership by the university in 2009.

A woman with exceptional leadership gifts, Sister Joanne shared her expertise as a member of numerous local, state and national boards. She appreciated the Benedictine way of life and was committed to living it fully. Even when her health declined, she was faithful to the common life of the sisters, to community prayer and to the ministries of Annunciation Monastery. With a grateful heart, she always thanked those who assisted her in any way. Last summer on the occasion of her 50^th anniversary as a Benedictine sister, she said, “My greatest reward has been watching people with whom I’ve ministered develop their gifts and serve God.”

Sister Joanne is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Rita Graham, her aunt Elaine M. Hill, all of Denver, Colo., cousins, many friends and the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery.

Memorials may be made to Annunciation Monastery.

To share memories of Sister Joanne, visit wwwparkwayfuneral.com and sign the online guest book (Parkway Funeral Service, Bismarck).

* * * * *

Benedictine Awareness at University of Mary

Some of our sisters responded to questions put forth by University of Mary students during Benedictine Awareness week.

Following the Benedictine Awareness convocation was the ever popular "Shake, Rattle and Dough" event. Students and staff enjoyed a variety of donut holes and hot chocolate!

* * * * *

March 25 – Annunciation of the Lord

The Feast of the Annunciation, which commemorates the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary that she would conceive Jesus, and the conception of Jesus by the Holy Spirit at that moment, goes back to the fourth or fifth century. Its central focus is the Incarnation: God has become one of us.

The story of the Annunciation, meaning “the announcing,” is told in Luke’s Gospel. At the Annunciation, the angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will conceive a Son, and his name will be Jesus. The angel’s greeting, “Hail, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you,” has echoed down through the ages in many prayers and is known as the “Hail Mary.” Mary was confused as to how she would bear God’s Son, as she was a virgin. The angel then explains that the Holy Spirit will come upon her.

Mary has an important role to play in God’s plan. From all eternity, God destined her to be the mother of Jesus and closely related to him in the creation and redemption of the world. By God’s grace, she becomes the empty space in which God could act. She quietly received the revelation into her depths and let it call her forth in the complete harmony of a yes, the perfect yes of love. She allowed to deep mysteries that had been revealed to her to form a heart in her that would be able continuously to say a complete yes. Hers was the open space of a question, wide open to whatever God would ask of her. Hers was an openness and yes to God big enough to allow God to become incarnate within her.

As a young Jewish person, she pondered the scriptures, and entered more and more deeply into the longings of her faithful people. Steeped in the religious traditions of her people, she believed in God and God’s nearness to human life. She was open, receptive, and ready to respond when God called.

Once aware of what God was asking of her, her attitude was simple: “Be it done unto me according to your word.” As a culmination of Mary’s constant fidelity to the grace of the Holy Spirit, she is led to consent to the Incarnation, which came to fruition in her giving birth to Jesus.

In Mary’s cooperation with God’s plan of salvation, God’s compassion becomes flesh in our world. Since she has made possible this union of God in Christ with all of humankind, no area of human existence is left untouched or unaffected by God’s grace. Such contemplative realization of God’s presence to us helps us appreciate that we are living the mystery of God. Such an experience of mystery does to lead to a withdrawal from the world, but rather challenges us to participate in the work of bringing about the Kingdom of God. It is an invitation to hear the Word of God and live out that Word in compassionate action, just as Mary did in response to the Annunciation.

The centrality and importance of the Annunciation to our life of faith, compassion and service is reflected in the name of our monastery: “Annunciation Monastery.”

* * * * *

March 21 – Feast of St. Benedict

St. Benedict was born around 480 in Italy. He lived in a world very much like our own. In sixth century Italy, there were wars, violence, slavery, (today we call it human trafficking), the breakdown of the family and material and moral decay.

As a young man Benedict went to Rome to study. But because of the decadence he found there, he fled to a cave near Subiaco and lived as a hermit for several years. There in the silence, he developed a deep love for God and the Scriptures. But people who were looking for a more meaningful way of life sought him out and asked to be his disciples. Their insistence wore him down and so Benedict started monasteries and eventually wrote what he called “a little Rule for beginners,” which has endured through the centuries. This rule isn’t only for monastic women and men. Many others find in the rule a guide and a ground for their own lives in the middle of a chaotic and challenging world.

The Rule has endured for two reasons. One - it is rooted in the Scriptures – love of God and love of neighbor – and two, it is adaptable to new times and cultures. St. Benedict did say in his rule that if you think of a better way to do something, do it. The sisters who came to Dakota Territory in 1878 adapted the Rule to their frontier life as have many other monastics down through the ages. But the basic values remain the same.

In Benedict’s monasteries there were monks from all walks of life – noblemen, ex-slaves, educated, and uneducated. To have all these classes of people living together in a somewhat peaceful manner was truly remarkable and a tribute to Benedict’s wise and humane spirit. He says, “They should each try to be the first to show respect to the other.” Nobody was more important than anyone else and that was revolutionary in his culture. The monasteries were places of equality. Everyone came to prayers, to meals, did some sort of work and everyone had to take a weekly turn helping in the kitchen and by that Benedict actually meant cooking the meals! Imagine a nobleman cooking in a monastery.

The Rule of Benedict emphasizes respect -- a little word, but if we make it part of the fabric of our being, we could change the world. Benedictines are passionate about making the world a better place --- the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, the monks from Assumption Abbey, our adopted Benedictines Father Shea and countless others who incorporate Benedictine values in their lives want to make our society more humane and just. We pray all of us continue on the Benedictine path toward God so that together we can make a difference in the lives of others.

* * * * *

Sister Kathleen Atkinson Honored by Zonta Club - March 15, 2011

Bismarck Zonta Club's 2nd Vice President, Chris Heringer with Sister Kathleen Atkinson and Zonta's Vice President, Carmen Miller. Sister Kathleen was nominated this year's community honoree for her efforts in supporting women of all walks of life.

The following comments are courtesy of Chris Heringer:

I would like to welcome all Zonta members and our distinguished guest to our Zonta Rose Day celebration.

Since 1999, the yellow rose has served as the symbol of Zonta Rose Day which coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8. On this day, Zontians around the world are encouraged to distribute yellow roses in support of women and their efforts; and in support of issues relating to improving the lives of women.

Since it was first established in 1911 International Women’s Day has exceeded all expectations. In 1975 International Women’s Day was given official recognition by the United Nations. The 2011 International Women’s Day marks 100 years of International Women’s Day being celebrated around the world. In many countries around the world International Women’s Day is marked as a national holiday. (Russia, China, Armenia)

Celebrations of International Women’s Day take place all over the world and are celebrated in all types of venues choosing different themes that reflect gender and global issues. From themes centered in the arts to peace walks recognizing the liberation of women as an essential part of the struggle for the emancipation of humanity. International Women’s Day events around the globe recognize the contributions of women as global leaders, teachers, humanitarians, farmers, and sole supporters of their families. International Women’s Day also continues to draw attention to the plight of women created by violence against them which is rooted in gender inequity.

To quote the Zonta web site, “If poverty, HIV/AIDS, illiteracy, violence and human trafficking had a face it would be female.” To that end, Zonta International is a leader in its global and local efforts to help women overcome barriers to equal education, healthcare, legal rights and basic human safety. In this Biennium Zonta International has pledged more than 2 million dollars to international service projects benefitting women around the world; building on the progress made in Rwanda, Liberia, Guatemala and El Salvador over the last two years and expanding support to victims of violence in Cambodia , Nepal, Uganda and Haiti. The Amelia Earhart Fellowship and Jane Klausman Women in Business Scholarship and Young Women in Public Affairs award programs are opening new doors for more and more women in education and careers traditionally dominated by men.

For our part Bismarck’s Zonta Club accepts our responsibility by recognizing women locally in all walks of life who we feel represent our mission: advancing the status of women. We give roses individually to those who have impacted us personally or professionally and also choose to honor someone from within the community for their efforts in protecting the human dignity and rights of women.

This year’s community honoree is Sister Kathleen Atkinson

* * * * *

Let the Games Begin!

Friday nights at Annunciation Monastery usually mean popcorn and games. We look forward to monthly game nights with University of Mary students. Last Friday brought 54 students clamoring (OK, meandering...)to the monastery for an evening of popcorn, Sister Gerard's "Orange Gerardius) a version of the Orange Julius, games and a whole lotta laughs! We even enjoyed s'mores on a frosty winter evening on the deck!

Popcorn and Orange Gerardius's!

Just look at the happy poker faces...we mean, Uno faces!

We enjoy s'mores during every season!

* * * * *

Happy Valentine's Day!

What's not to love about St. Valentine? That wonderful saint who calls us to love one another, do special things for each other like send messages of love and kindness - not to mention parties, complete with strawberries, cookies, candies, bars and fruit punch! We had a great time celebrating this morning, thanks to our nurse and social worker, Colleen! Have a day blessed with love and share it with others! God bless you!

Sisters Donna, Joseph and Gerard

Sisters Michael and Patricia

Sisters Frances and Rose

Brian, business office, and his father, Maurice, maintenance

Colleen serving punch to Sr. JoAnn and cook, Valentena

Feast of St. Scholastica – February 10

St. Scholastica, sister of St. Benedict, was born around 480, and was consecrated to God at a young age. After her brother went to Monte Cassino, where he established his famous monastery, she founded and governed a monastery of nuns about five miles away.

The most commonly told story about her is that she and her brother would meet once a year to share prayer and spiritual conversation. On one of these visits, St. Scholastica, wishing to continue their conversation, begged her brother to stay for the evening. However, he refused, insisting that it was not permitted for him to spend the night outside his monastery. At that point, Scholastica entered into deep prayer, and after a moment a furious thunderstorm burst forth, making it impossible for St. Benedict to leave; thus, the spiritual conversation continued through the night, in answer to her prayer.

Three days later, Scholastica died (around the year 543) and, in a vision, St. Benedict saw his sister’s soul leaving the earth and ascending to heaven in the form of a shining white dove.

* * * * *

World Day for Consecrated Life - February 2, 2011

Celebrated in Parishes Feb 6, 2011

In 1997, Pope John Paul II instituted a day of prayer for women and men in consecrated life. This celebration is attached to the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2nd. The Feast is also known as Candlemas Day; the day on which candles are blessed symbolizing Christ who is the light of the world. So too, those in consecrated life are called to reflect light of Jesus Christ to all peoples. The celebration of World Day for Consecrated Life is transferred to the following Sunday in order to highlight the gift of consecrated persons for the whole Church.

Prayer for Consecrated Persons

God our Father, we thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son's Kingdom as sisters, brothers, religious priests, consecrated virgins, hermits, as well as members of Secular Institutes and Societies of Apostolic Life. Renew their knowledge and love of you, and send your Holy Spirit to help them respond generously and courageously to your will. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

(Prayer courtesy of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)

* * * * *

Our Sisters Enjoyed Serving at The Banquet

Sisters Rosemary, Agatha, Gerard and Patricia were hard at work preparing and serving a delicious meal at "The Banquet," a free weekly meal that is offered at Trinity Lutheran Church. In attendance were 350 people. It is an honor to be a part of this community ministry and Christ-like service. Blessings to all who serve, and all who are served, at "The Banquet."

* * * * *

"Will the real Sister Stephanie please stand up?"

If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, Sister Stephanie Dolyniuk should feel pretty flattered! The Sister's choir paid their respects to Sister Stephanie on her birthday by bearing her resemblance and singing a hearty "Happy Birthday!"

* * * * *

Let God Lead You!

Vocation Live-In for Women Ages 30+

Is God calling YOU to become a Sister of Annunciation Monastery? We would love to meet women ages 30+ who want to explore God's call to religious life to our vocation live-in experience February 12-13, 2011.

Join our Sisters in prayer, meals and leisure. Spend time getting to know our Sisters and listening to God's direction in your life. No charge. Pre-registration is required by calling Sister Gerard, vocation director, at 701-355-8909 or e-mail: vocations@annunciationmonastery.org

Discernment Program for Women Ages 17-30

National Vocation Awareness Week is January 9-15, 2011. Choosing a vocation in life is the most important decision each of us makes. Decisions made with discernment (deep reflection), are usually the right decisions that bring joy to the heart in service of God and others.

As part of Vocation Awareness, Sister Gerard Wald offers a monthly discernment program at Annunciation Monastery designed to help young people reflect deeply on God's call for them, to help them listen to the Lord and follow the path that brings the greatest joy to life.

Mondays, 7-9 p.m.

January 10, 2011 * Family Background and Faith Development

February 7, 2011 * Scripture and Our Call to Holiness

March 7 * The Call to Serve in the Church

April 4 * The Call to Religious Life, the Priesthood and Marriage

For more information and FREE registration, contact Sister Gerard at 701-355-8909 or email: vocations@annunciationmonastery.org

* * * * *

Sister Gemma bakes a variety of Christmas breads for all to enjoy.

Sister Ruth Margaret matches the beautiful Christmas centerpiece, a gift to the sisters.

Sister Hannah and other sisters have been baking Christmas cookies.

University of Mary Students "Come Clean"

Today we were treated to having our dining rooms and community room cleaned by University of Mary students. We are so grateful to each one of them for their fine example of servant leadership and cheerful attitudes! Afterwards, Sister Gemma toured students around the Monastery. We keep the students in our prayers and feel blessed when they join us for prayer.

God Bless Our New Oblates

Craig Hansen and Alvina Campbell are welcomed as new oblates of Annunciation Monastery. They are pictured here receiving a blessing from Prioress Sister Nancy Miller, Father Daniel Maloney and all of the sisters in our monastic community. (Oblation Nov. 7, 2010)

Sister Nancy Miller, Sister Patricia Schap (oblate director), Alvina Campbell, Craig Hansen and Sister Stephanie Dolyniuk (assistant oblate director).

* * * * *

Sister Renee Zastoupil and Sister Susan Lardy Receive

Service Awards at St. Alexius Employee Awards Banquet

Sister Renee Zastoupil, OSB

Congratulations to Sister Renee Zastoupil who received a service award (and a bouquet of beautiful roses) for 45 years of dedicated service at St. Alexius Medical Center. You are a true inspiration to us and to the many patients and families through your ministry as director of pastoral care.

Sister Susan Lardy, OSB

Also honored at the St. Alexius Medical Center Employee Awards Banquet was Sister Susan Lardy, vice president of St. Alexius Mission Effectiveness. Sister Susan received a service award for her 10-year ministry in this position. Thank you, Sister Susan, for collaborating with the staff of St. Alexius to further the Benedictine values and mission.

God bless you both and thank you for all you do!

* * * * *

Sister Helen Kilzer Receives Lifetime of Service Award

October 22, 2010

Sister Helen Kilzer, a woman who has generously shared her life, as a Benedictine Sister of Annunciation Monastery, and in her ministry as a lifelong teacher of foreign languages, was honored today with the "Sister Helen Kilzer Lifetime Service Award" by the Foreign Language Association of North Dakota (FLAND).

Sister Helen Kilzer was honored with a standing ovation by FLAND members, former students and Sisters of Annunciation Monastery.

(lt. to rt.) Jeannine Saabye, Valerie Kling, Sister Helen Kilzer, Dr. Tom Porter, John Kapsner. The people pictured with Sister Helen are all former foreign language students of hers. Each spoke about the influence Sister Helen had on their lives. In a nutshell, here are some of the comments (abbreviated!)

John Kapsner: "We've all had mediocre teachers and I've had a handful of great teachers. Sister Helen, you were the first!"

Jeannine Saabye: "Sister Helen taught me French, but so much more. She taught discipline, risk-taking, teamwork and joy."

Tom Porter: "I learned so many things in Sister Helen's French class, one of them was French!...But also, I learned these three things: (1)the Benedictine values, especially respect and community; (2)the love of language; and (3) how to be a teacher with passion and compassion."

The following are remarks from Valerie Kling, French teacher at Bismarck High School, and former student of Sister Helen Kilzer:

Sister Helen Kilzer Lifetime Service Award

ABOUT THE AWARD:

The Sister Helen Kilzer Lifetime Service Award was created for two purposes: first, to honor Sister Helen Kilzer, who has demonstrated a lifetime of service to the teaching and learning of world language and cultures; second, to honor those, such as retired teachers and professionals who have served in the profession of the teaching and learning of world language and cultures; and who, like Sister Helen Kilzer, continue to demonstrate a lifetime commitment to the teaching and learning of world languages and cultures even after retirement.

The first Sister Helen Kilzer Lifetime Service Award will be given to Sister Helen herself in 2010. Thereafter, the Sister Helen Kilzer Lifetime Service Award will be awarded annually, beginning in 2011, to one person who meets the criteria set forth by the Foreign Language Association of North Dakota (FLAND) and the Sister Helen Kilzer Lifetime Service Award Committee, which will be created upon the official acceptance of this award into the FLAND by-laws.

“Those who know nothing of foreign languages know nothing of their own.” (Goethe)

Welcome FLAND members, distinguished guests, friends, colleagues, former students of Sr. Helen, and especially you Sr. Helen. Thank you all for coming. We are here to honor a woman who has dedicated her life to the teaching and learning of world languages and cultures. Yes Sister Helen, we are here to pay tribute to you and all your accomplishments. Sr. Helen has done most everything when it comes to languages. She has taught all levels of language from grade school to college. She has started new programs in various schools and she even organized a total immersion language camp at Lake Metigoshe. She has implemented a wide array of foreign language methodologies in her classes. She has always remained involved. Even after retirement she continued to tutor students individually or in small groups. Throughout her career she has remained active in the foreign language association of ND. In fact she became the first president forty two years ago. Sr. Helen speaks fluently both German and French and at the age of 75 she went to Spain to learn Spanish, and now she is studying Italian to tutor students going to Italy at the University of Mary. Why? Because in order to know the culture, she is a firm believer that you must also know the language. She believes that one way to learn a foreign language is by teaching it. Looking at all her accomplishments, what we note most about Sr Helen is her passion. I can speak from firsthand experience that taking a language class with Sr. Helen has inspired me to become a lifelong learner of languages and cultures. Sr. Helen has demonstrated a passion for language learning and has been able to pass on that love to many students. I loved coming to my French class at the University of Mary. She immersed us in the language from day one. She created experiences that would engage us in the language. I remember that once we went out to eat a restaurant and we were only to speak French, even to the poor waitress who didn’t know what was going on. I don’t remember what we said but I do remember that our conversation was rich and plentiful. We all took on our roles willingly and enthusiastically and dared not say one word in English.

Sr. Helen, many students can attest to your legacy. There was one comment that I heard over and over as I spoke to some of your former students, and that was, Sister Helen? What a great teacher! One former student, Libby Pierce who could not be here today because she is doing a practicum in California for clinical psychology wrote a letter expressing her gratitude to you. Her mother Ann Pierce shared this letter. She wrote: “I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to you for coming out of retirement to teach my German classes during my freshmen year of college at the University of Mary. Your passion for teaching and dedication to your students shows in your willingness to develop German courses for just two students, so we would have the opportunity to further study the language. In your class I remember how I first began to feel like I was developing fluency in carrying on a conversation entirely in German. Not only did I learn more about the language, I also gained a greater appreciation for the German culture in learning about the architecture and art as well as the history of Germany and other German-speaking countries. After taking your classes I went on to further my study with a German major as well as Psychology and Latin majors at Concordia College. Now as a doctoral student in clinical psychology, my study of German has allowed me to better appreciate the contributions of German-speaking psychologists in the early history of my field. I continue to utilize my knowledge and passion for the German language and culture that you inspired in my love of German literature and classic films.”

Another former student, John Kapsner, a lawyer in town, was in her very first French class. He is here to share some thoughts.

Jeannine Saabye associate professor and director of communications at U-Mary, was a former student of Sr. Helens. She will also say a few words.

Finally Tom Porter, professor of Music at U-Mary will share his thoughts.

I remember a quote by Goethe, the German writer that she always had on the bulletin board. “To learn another language is to gain a new heart.” She truly lived this. Paul Homan, professor of French at NDSU and former student says: Sr. Helen did something very few people who stand in front of classrooms know how to do -- she made us believe that what we were doing was important, significant in some way which perhaps we had yet to discover. This importance was real to us because--looking back on it now-- I think we sensed in her a fellow student, one who had, and still has, a deep passion for learning. She brought us along on the strength of that commitment and drew us into sharing it. There is no better reason for calling someone "teacher."

I have had the privilege of knowing Sr. Helen for almost 30 years. She was my French teacher, my mentor, my colleague and now she is my special friend. I am proud and honored that on behalf of the Foreign Language Association of North Dakota, I can present to you Sr. Helen, the Sister Helen Kilzer Lifetime Service Award.

* * * * *

In Loving Memory of Sister Moireen Kelly

Sister Moireen Kelly, 96, a founder of the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Bismarck, entered eternal life Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2010, at a Bismarck care center.

God and music were woven throughout Sister Moireen’s 75 years as a Benedictine Sister. She dedicated her life to God and spent many years teaching and enjoying music.

Born on Sept. 10, 1914, in Mandan, N.D., to John and Rose (Boehm) Kelly, Sister Moireen was given the name Gertrude. She was the oldest of six children, five girls and one boy.

While in the fifth grade, Gertrude met the Benedictine sisters from St. Benedict’s, St. Joseph, Minn. During weekend walks with the sisters, she recalled asking them many questions which led to her own interest in religious life. She entered St. Benedict’s Monastery in 1933, where she received the name, Sister Moireen, and made monastic profession July 11, 1935.

Sister Moireen’s major in music eventually led to her ministry as a music teacher, choir director and organist. In 1938, she was sent to the Bismarck Diocese where she taught music in schools, directed choirs in parishes, and gave private piano lessons.

In 1947, Sister Moireen earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of St. Benedict. That same year, Sister Moireen transferred her commitment to the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery when sisters were invited to found a new community in the Bismarck Diocese.

She served in music ministry throughout North Dakota at St. Mary’s in Bismarck; St. Joseph’s Convent, Mandan, and at St. Patrick’s Convent in Dickinson.

When the sisters moved into their new monastery and opened Priory High in Bismarck in 1959, Sister Moireen was assigned to be procurator, a position she held for 10 years. She oversaw the furnishing of rooms for the monastery and high school. She recalled, “The furniture had been ordered by world-renowned architect Marcel Breuer himself!”

She continued as a music instructor and private piano instructor for 31 years at Annunciation Monastery and the University of Mary, where she was a faculty member for 15 years. She also served the monastic community as organist until her retirement in 2007.

In celebrating her 75^th anniversary as a Benedictine last summer, Sister Moireen said her life as a Sister was fulfilling. “Every day, to the best of my ability, I try to do ordinary things extraordinarily well.”

She will be fondly remembered for her ability to tell a good story, her faithfulness to the Benedictine life and her love of family, friends and community.

Sister Moireen is survived by a sister, Kathleen Kennedy, Billings, Mont.; a brother, John (Maureen), Roseville, Minn.; a brother-in law, John Maillet, Missoula, Mont., nieces and nephews, their children and the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery.

Memorials may be made to Annunciation Monastery.

To share memories of Sister Moireen, visit www.parkwayfuneral.com and sign the online guest book. (Parkway Funeral Service, Bismarck)

Sister Moireen Kelly Funeral Reflection

Sister Nancy Miller, Prioress

October 25, 2010

Today we gather to celebrate and give God thanks for gifting us with Sister Moireen for 96 years, 75 of those years as a Benedictine Sister. We remember her with much love and gratitude. She was not only one of the founding members of Annunciation Monastery, but also was remarkably faithful to the Benedictine way of life. She was always there – present for community prayer, for meals, for community gatherings. She dedicated her life to God through the monastic way of life and gave it everything she could.

Like many of our elders, even into her 90s, Sister Moireen maintained a staunch interest and loyalty to community members and the mission of Annunciation Monastery. Her steadfast faith and commitment to God, to our monastic community and to the people of the Bismarck Diocese continues to inspire us.

Another of her outstanding qualities was her unwavering obedience to what was asked of her. We all know she loved music and enjoyed teaching it. From 1938 to 1959, she taught music in schools, directed choirs in parishes and gave private piano lessons in Bismarck, Mandan and Dickinson. She also delighted in getting to know the people in those cities.

Sister Moireen often told a story about a particular point in her life when she was asked to do something that she did not expect. She was at St Patrick’s Convent in Dickinson when a telephone call came from Mother Edane. Sister Moireen was asked to come to the new monastery in Bismarck and serve as the community’s procurator. As Sister Moireen tells the story – she said to Mother Edane that she would much rather prefer to stay in Dickinson and teach music. However, Sister Moireen was on the next train to Bismarck. She was 45 at the time and walked into a new world of overseeing purchasing, maintenance, transportation and the distribution of clothing for over 200 sisters. It was a position she held for ten years. This is a prime example of the personal sacrifices Sister Moireen made, to do what she could to help the community.

Sister Moireen was also one of our musicians and organists. There were many days and many years when she would faithfully climb onto the organ bench and play for prayers. She enjoyed contributing to the musical aspect of our prayer. She did rejoice in the Lord and exulted in God’s presence by making beautiful music.

Sister Moireen always enjoyed a good visit with people. She especially looked forward to visits with her family. She talked about all of you with such love and affection and was so proud of her nieces and nephews and their children. Kathleen, having you and other family members here last summer for her 75^th jubilee filled her with much joy. I think she was on cloud nine for weeks after that special day.

It is wonderful memories like these that all of us have of Sister Moireen which do not end with her death. They live on in our hearts and give us comfort.

Through the grace of baptism Sister Moireen became a child of God and was endowed with a faith that grew stronger and deeper as the years went by.

In her last days, she was ready to go to the place God had prepared for her for all eternity. She believed in Jesus’ words, “I will take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be.”

Today’s responsorial psalm is very fitting for this faithful Benedictine woman who longed to live in the house of the Lord all the days of her life. As the response says, “I believe that I will see the good things of the Lord in the land of the living.” So we believe – believe that Sister Moireen now dwells in the land of the living, making beautiful music in the house of the Lord forever.

God bless you Sister Moireen. We are so grateful that God gifted us with your presence, love, and powerful witness of faith.

Wake for Sister Moireen Kelly

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Reflection by Sister Thomas Welder

Washed by the waters of baptism

strengthened in the Spirit's anointing

sustained season by season

by a morsel of heaven's bread and a

swallow of true vine's precious gift,

Sister Moireen Kelly lived the life of a Benedictine sister with a spirit of whole-hearted love and joy. Born in Mandan, North Dakota, to parents of German/Irish descent, the young Gertrude quickly learned to tell time by the arrival and departure of the trains. Her father was a railroader with Northern Pacific, while her mother saw to the comings and goings of her eldest daughter, to include piano lessons. Shaped by the Catholic practices of her family and the influence of her teachers, Sisters from St. Benedict's Monastery in St. Joseph, Minnesota, Sister Moireen, in 1933, left her family, then living in Livingston, Montana, to begin her life as a Benedictine Sister. At the outset, she trusted that her call to community was of God. She knew that obedience was more than a matter of rules. It was listening, listening with the spirit to God's Word, to the Word made flesh.

There's an Irish proverb that says, "Continual cheerfulness is a sign of wisdom." In Sister Moireen's case, her cheerfulness was also a sign of her ability to tell a story. One of her stories put the spotlight on her father and his strong objection to her becoming a religious. In fact, one day he appeared at the convent unannounced to take her home. A year later at her reception, Mr. Kelly was proudly taking all the credit for his daughter's decision to become a Benedictine.

Becoming a Benedictine is embarking on a search for God in the company of others with the same desire, the same voice, and the same wonder and joy. This evening's reading from Sirach captures the essence of Benedictines' unending round of worship from hour to hour, year to year.

"Sing a song of praise blessing the Lord for all his works.

Declare the greatness of his name,

proclaim his praise

with song and with lyre...

sing with all your heart and voice..."

Substitute piano and organ for lyre and you begin to sketch the profile of Sister Moireen, piano teacher and performer, church organist, choir director, classroom music teacher, faculty member, and until her retirement in 2007, monastery organist. She enjoyed it all because the medium of music connected her to people and the community. She was held in great respect by the piano teachers across the state and was an active member of local, state, and national music teacher associations.

Her musical gifts were never confined to meeting her own needs. She spent her life creating a world of music and text that resonated in the hearts of those she served.

With a facility for relating with students of all ages, Sister Moireen could transform an ordinary piano lesson or a regular choir rehearsal into an experience in which the participants at the end would say, "Let's do it again!" In the words of Ignatius of Antioch, we could hear Sister Moireen say, "Take the tone altogether from God, and sing aloud to the Creator with one voice through Jesus Christ, so that he may hear you and know by your good works that you are indeed members of Christ's Body."

Sister Moireen's good works, were expanded with the move in 1959 to the new priory and school when Mother Edane asked her to serve as procurator and director of choirs at the new Priory High School. The ten years as procurator not only made her a student of Chapter 31 of the Rule of St. Benedict which described the procurator as "someone who is wise, mature in conduct, temperate," but, 40 years later, she journaled about another move -- the move to this monastery. She wrote, "The chapel pews had our name labels in our places as well as our prayer books. Now isn't that detail?! I knew then our prayer schedule was in place and life in the new Annunciation Monastery began in earnest!" For Sister Moireen, "Ora et Labora," prayer and work, summed up the life of a Benedictine, that is, if you added the game of bridge. She and my mother tried to be subtle about their passion for the game. You'd hear them talk about mission, couples, foursome. We all knew it was bridge!

As a young Sister, when Latin was still the language of worship, Sister Moireen had an awakening to God's great kindness. In Psalm 18 she met God as her rock, her savior, her shelter, her light, her life. She shared with another Sister, "He's more than a judge."

And when it came to make a judgment on the level of care Sister Moireen needed in her last days, she herself, much to everyone's surprise, showed up at her own care conference and announced that she'd like to participate in therapy for another week. But, she added, if she were to go home to the monastery, she would never want her needs to keep a Sister caregiver from community prayer or gatherings.

Community was life-giving to Sister Moireen, because she gave her life to this community. On her 75th Jubilee she celebrated in the presence of family. Nothing meant more to Sister Moireen through her years than time spent with her family, her friends, and community. On that occasion she said, "Everyday, to the best of my ability, I try to do ordinary things extraordinarily well."

So now, Sister Moireen, sing with all your heart and voice, for you have done all things extraordinarily well.

* * * * *

Annunciation Monastery Gift Shop

Come visit us and browse through our shop. We have handmade cards for various occasions, pottery, gift bags, and embroidered dish towels among other gift items. Most items are created by the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery. Check out the new DVD of our history.

Annunciation Monastery

7520 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504. 701-255-1520