Ascension Vocation Discernment Retreat Notes: St. Clare Woman of Prayer

Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity were uplifted with the presence of young women discerning our way of life as consecrated women religious May 18-20, 2012. Given the 800th Anniversary of St. Clare's call to follow Jesus and become the first feminine follower of St. Francis is still very much alive in our hearts, retreatants focused on St. Clare's prayer: gazing, considering, contemplating so as to imitate Christ.

Friday evening's reflection time outdoors on the Motherhouse grounds and in St. Francis Chapel invited visitors to gaze in quiet attentiveness, open to the wonderful presence of God. These Scripture texts were considered for keeping one's eyes on Jesus alone:
  • Matthew 14:22-33  Peter
  • John 2:1-12  Mary
  • Mark 10:46-52  Blind Man
  • Mark 1:40-42  A Leper
  • Luke 9:28-36  The Transfiguration
Saturday hearts were encouraged to become aware that God is contemplating us! All were invited to listen, be open and become attentive to the promptings of God's Spirit within. These Scripture personalities were highlighted for Jesus contemplating us:
  • Luke 21:1-4  Poor Widow
  • John 20:24-29  Thomas
  • Luke 7:36-49  Sinful Woman
  • John 21:1-4  Disciples
  • John 4:7-26  Woman at the well
Sunday all focused on the prayer of imitation. To imitate is not to mimic the behavior of another. Rather, St. Clare used the term as becoming the image of the God on whom she gazed. Imitation is transformation insofar as Christ comes alive in our lives. For St. Francis and St. Clare imitating Christ meant:
  • Matthew 19:21  Sell all you have and give it to the poor.
  • Luke 9:3  Take nothing for your journey.
  • Matthew 16:24  If anyone come after me let him deny him/herself.
Desiring to pray with St. Clare and us? We invite you to consider our June 24-26, 2012 Vocation Discernment Retreat. Click here to register.



Comments

Anonymous said…
This retreat actually made me think of everything going on in my life and now I know that Jesus has been always in my life and everything he does in our lives is to make us happy.
Anonymous said…
The retreat helped me to become aware of what the Sisters' life really is. It will help me to consider the vocation to serve God as a Sister.
Anonymous said…
The peace adn safety was so wonderful. Being around so many women that are dedicating their lives to Christ was wonderful.
Anonymous said…
This retreat has made me feel ready to take the next step even though it is a little nerve-racking!! I am excited to learn more and seek a deeper relationship with Christ and be submersed in such a joyful community.
Anonymous said…
It helped me understand that God will provide in my life. I am always worried about what will be of my life, but I learned that my vocation will only be found once I release myself in God's hand.
Anonymous said…
I appreciated reading the Scriptures and then meditating and loved to pray.
Anonymous said…
I really appreciated being able to spend time with the Novices and asking questions--very helpful.
Anonymous said…
I appreciated the silent time in the chapels.
Anonymous said…
I appreciated spending time with Sister Monica.
Anonymous said…
I appreciated praying, kite activity and gazing activity.
Anonymous said…
I liked teh explanation of different ways of praying especially the bible citations related to each method.