nuns

Definition of a Benedictine Nun

Quæ est ista? A Benedictine Nun (Monialés)is a female member of the Religious Order of St. Benedict. Canon Law distinguishes the difference between Nuns who take solemn vows as to those who take simple vows (Sisters). Benedictine Nuns may also be divided according to the nature of their life: contemplative (choir Nuns)or those who belong to an active community. The Nuns of St. Philomena Convent at Holy Rosary Abbey are Choir Nuns.

The Nuns of St. Philomena Convent are bound by the same Vows as all Benedictines: the Vows of the Evangelical Counsels; the holy admonitions of Christ professed in the Gospels, in addition to those particular to all traditional Benedictine Monastics: the Vows of Stability and Conversion.

Benedictine Nuns come from all walks of life. They come from a variety of family, social and educational backgrounds, but enter the Convent with the same goal … to emulate their most holy and Blessed Mother … to give without reserve … their Fiat ! Just as Our Blessed Mother gave her fiat to God through His messenger, the Archangel Gabriel … Benedictine Nuns give their fiat to Our Blessed Lord through their affirmative response to His call.

The Convent of St. Philomena is of relatively recent beginnings. Having been established for only a few years, our beginnings are not unlike any other new foundation. We have and experience our own growing pains … we learn anew as each day passes, the exact definition of what the Church calls “sacrifice.”

To live a Benedictine life, means that we must, at all cost, surrender ourselves to the Holy Rule of St. Benedict that governs our daily lives in the Horarium, the Divine Office and Holy Obedience to our Monastic Superiors. Being an integral part of Holy Rosary Abbey, the Nuns, even though not required, have a particular daily devotion to Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary.

The Nuns of this particular house, spend much of their ora et labora (work and prayer) utilizing gifts and talents particular to each one. In keeping with the sacredness and beauty of tradition, the Nuns design and create new vestments, altar and sacred linens, as well as the badly needed art of restoration of old and antique vestments. Sewing of the traditional Benedictine Habits for the Monks and the Nuns is an essential responsibility of the Convent. One of the newest projects to challenge the Nuns is the creation of traditional heirloom quality infant baptismal gowns and accessories. Another task that the Nuns spend time is the repair and restorative art of statue painting.

Living in a dual community requires all to share in the common duties of the Abbey. Housekeeping, kitchen and laundry are all part of community living. In winter shoveling a walkway free of snow – in spring, planting and pruning - summer tending the many colorful blossoms adoring our Shrine of the Sacred Heart – and in the fall there are always plenty of leaves to be gathered.

Recreation within the Convent takes place in a variety of forms which include many art projects: drawing, painting, writing poetry and composition. Music and musical instruments are encouraged, and brings solace and joy to those in their presence. As laughter emanates from the Nuns community room, one can be assured that the competition is stirring with a good game of scrabble or other like board games.

Vocare ... Is there a desire so strong towards our Lord that you are willing to sacrifice all: mother, father, family and friends, the convenience and luxuries of the world? Is He there when you awake in the morning? Is He still there at the noon-day break? Is He the last thought before you resign yourself into slumber? If this is so ... then Christ must be courting you ... what better suitor could any woman hope for?

If any part of the above incites the slightest desire to surrender yourself to Our Lord Jesus Christ, then you have been given the grace to seek God as a Benedictine Nun. Contacting our Vocation Office and coming for a vocation visit might help in clarifying Gods call.