by Marie Frederickson

A couple years ago I made my first trip to the Monastery of St. Gertrude's. I was unsure what to expect. I had heard of the hospitality of the sisters, the silence from 9:00 pm – 9:00 am, the daily prayer services, and time for silence and reflection. The time to get away and have my spirit rejuvenated was most compelling.

During our stay, a group of us learned how to pray and read scripture through Lectio Divina. We had time to ourselves with a verse focused on creation. I went outside for my time with Scripture. As I sat I began to notice birds flying overhead. Their chirping was everywhere. How did I not notice at first?

Gradually, the horse I had been watching made his way toward me, stopped, and focused on me. Was he trying to communicate? I thought on the mystery of this living creature. He bent his head and began to eat. I followed him, noticing the grass blowing as the wind brushed through it. It was beautiful. A thought welled up inside me, How often do I neglect what God has placed in front of me? I came away from my time more present to life around me.

What I discovered on my trip to St. Gertrude's was the importance of taking time to be still, to intentionally create space to experience God in a transforming way. I invite you to come to this place, a space where you can rest in God.

Information packets and registration forms are available in the Lobby starting March 16. Contact Marie Frederickson (550-4857, myrrh.fred@gmail.com) for more information.

Monastery Retreat
Wed – Sun, May 7-11 or Fri-Sun, May 9-11
St. Gertrude Monastery, Cottonwood, ID
$250 for May 7-11; $125 for May 9-11, plus travel.
Registration deadline is April 21.