It's such a special time exploring our vocation as women; to begin to ask God where and how He is calling us to love.   My experience attending the Servants of the Cross Come and See weekend was a special weekend of exploration with the community and with the invitation God was placing on my own heart.  I hope to give you a glimpse of my weekend and invite you to ask God if He is calling you to visit and do the same.

In being slightly late in my arrival and never attending a retreat such like this before, I was (as to be expected!) nervous showing up at the door.  My nerves were calmed as I was welcomed personally by each sister and came to be quickly included in the evident joy that permeated the house. 

In all that I participated in, whether it be meal times, praying the divine office, singing praise and worship, or even times of recreation, the authenticity and joy of each sister spoke loudly to my heart.   I was also overjoyed to praise God during our times of worship and was definitely drawn to the docility and openness to the Holy Spirit that defined our time.

Over the four days of my stay, I had the oppourtunity to see how the sisters lived with one another, how they interacted and worked together; I learned about the origins of the young community and listened intently to each vocation story; I met individually with Sr. Anna for scripture based reflection, I laughed, I was touched, I prayed and listened, and left with new friendships.  A few times during the weekend I had to ask myself "Am I really on a discernment retreat?"  Yes I was.  And it was wonderful, and I thank and praise God for the grace He poured into my life during my stay.  So open up your heart and be blessed by this beautiful community!  It might feel like home (and you might never want to leave!)