VOLUME 57, NUMBER 1/ 3190 BENET LANE, COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO 80921-1509 / Spring 2019VOLUME 57, NUMBER 1/ 3190 BENET LANE, COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO 80921-1509 / Spring 2019

A place of hope and hospitality for the world.

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By Sister Clare Carr, OSB; Prioress

God was My Co-PilotGod was My Co-PilotBy Bill Frier, Major USAF, Retired & Friend of the Sisters of Benet Hill

Cover photo taken by Sister Mary Colleen Schwarz, OSB

Much gratitude to all the sisters and staff who contribute photos, articles and

proofreading/editing to each edition of The Review.

Bill and his wife, Sally are great friends to the Sisters of Benet Hill. They were first introduced to the sisters by their good friend Becky

Flemming (now deceased). Bill and Sally have attended many offerings of the sisters since the 1980s and count their relationship with the sisters

as one of God’s great blessings in their lives. They still attend Sunday liturgies, listen to guest speakers and attend concerts when they can.

Bill is 88 years young and his wife, Sally is 85.

“The winter is past; the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come.”

-Song of Solomon 2:11-12

Dear Friends and Families,

Opening this Review is a breath of spring. Beautiful spring flowers, graduations, and Easter joy. We are so blessed and bathed in the graces of God. We are invited daily to witness the many ways God shows up in our lives. Throughout these pages you will see the abundance of God’s presence in our ministries.

Blessings,

Sister Clare Carr, OSBPrioress

Message from the Prioress Message from the Prioress

We are engaged in educating hundreds of people about the dangers and darkness of human trafficking and human slavery. On June 8th we will sponsor the second Walk for Freedom- a fund raiser to prevent human trafficking. We are excited to have the youth from Lewis Palmer School District 38 joining us for this walk.

Wedding photo of Bill and Sally Frier

At a retreat a few months ago, our priest shared a special moment in his life … when he was unsure of his priestly vocation … when he just did not feel he was effective at all trying to do “God’s work.” His answer came from a good friend, not a fellow priest or counselor.

“The trouble with you,” advised his friend, “is that you BELIEVE too much.”

“BELIEVE too much?? How can you say that, I’m a priest!?”

“What you need more is TRUST.”

“What exactly do you mean?”

“Let me explain it this way. I know how much you like the circus, so I’m sure you very much enjoy seeing the star on the high wire artistically cross that wire from high post to high post … and you BELIEVE he will make it every time. When he comes to the stage in his act when he pushes a wheelbarrow across that wire … TRUST is whether you would get into that wheelbarrow, put your arms inside and let him push you across that wire!” (story continued on page 7)

Also, Sister Evangeline spent several months on the border with immigrant families seeking asylum from war and violence. Her experiences have profoundly moved those of us who have heard her stories, and we prayed for her and those aided in this ministry. When she has returned to us, she left a part of her heart with these beautiful people. Sister Evangeline is planning on returning sometime soon with Sister Naomi.

We are also very proud of the Global Online Benedictine Spiritual Direction Program which recently graduated 14 spiritual directors from around the world. They will carry the ministry of spiritual direction to all corners of the earth to help others create a more intimate relationship with God. We are grateful for how much God has blessed the success of this online program.

During this Easter season, we hear in the scriptures about the numerous appearances of Jesus, where he is frequently not recognized. I wonder how often Jesus is among us and we fail to recognize him. May we each pray for the grace to see, hear and know God among us.

Remember you are always welcome at our threshold.

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By Rev. Linda Brown, osb Oblate

By Sister Mary Colleen Schwarz, OSB; Vocation Director

As Easter dawns, the days lengthen, and the light grows. We know spring is coming even under the snow and cold, and we are preparing as well to be lighter and spring-filled. There is a joy in knowing other people are joining with us in letting the light in and allowing love to fill us more fully and shine through our lives. We need to render our hearts to God and give God an opening.Is there a need for a light to grow in you? Do you need to feel more peace within? Would you like to be more kind and able to show compassion and love? Do you need to unclutter-literally or metaphorically? By practicing discernment in our lives- what we say “yes” to and what we say “no” to – we will help illuminate the radiance of Christ in our lives and grow the light of hope in this world.

Are you able this Easter season to create space and room within your heart for God- a space that will invite us to call on the name of the Divine more frequently? Heart-space to hear the suffering of our brothers and sisters? To share the experience of the passion of Jesus? To let the Spirit flow freely to awaken a consciousness to a deeper form of loving?

“I believe that each of us comes from the Creator, trailing wisps of glory.” -Maya Angelou

Illuminate the Radiance of Christ in your Life Illuminate the Radiance of Christ in your Life

We flourish by being planted in the soil of God’s universal love. It is a limitless love that precedes us, sustains us and calls us along the path of life. Joan Chittister states, ”Resurrection is change at the root of the soul. It marks a whole new way of being in life. Let us go forward in Easter’s glow marked by God’s seal on our hearts.”

“All powerful and ever-living God, we praise and thank you through Jesus Christ our Lord, for your presence and action in the world. In the midst of conflict and division,we know it is you who turn our minds to thoughts of peace. Your Spirit changes our hearts: enemies begin to speak to one another, those who were estranged join hands in friendship, and nations seek the way of peace together. Your Spirit is at work when understanding puts an end to strife, when hatred is quenched by mercy, and vengeance gives way to forgiveness. For this we should never cease to thank and praise you. Amen.”

This prayer from the Preface for Mass II of Reconciliation opened our Lenten retreat on Saturday, March 16, 2019, at Benet Hill Monastery. Steve Gabriel and Sister Ana Cloughly guided ten of us through a retreat focused on forgiveness and the practices of forgiveness. We explored the “why” of forgiveness – how we all carry wounds from our human experience that weigh us down - and how freedom comes to us when we seek forgiveness as well as grant it to those who have hurt us. We discussed what forgiveness is and is not. I found it enlightening that forgiveness is truly a process, not necessarily a one-time pronouncement of “I forgive you.” True forgiveness takes time and prayer. We must be willing to initiate the process, recognize we don’t need to hold onto our resentments, and be willing to let go of them so God can do God’s work within us and others. Using lectio divina we explored how scripture speaks to us about forgiveness. Our facilitators then guided us through the Prayer of Forgiveness meditation as taught by Sister Bernadette Teasdale of Contemplative Outreach. This retreat spoke to me on many levels on how God calls us to be mindful of the wounds we carry and how freeing forgiveness can be if we are willing participants.

Oblates: True Forgiveness Takes Time & Prayer’Oblates: True Forgiveness Takes Time & Prayer’

This book, The Process of Forgiveness, is sold in our monastery gift shop.

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Last summer Sister Therese O’Grady and I facilitated a retreat on monastic discernment for our Benedictine Sisters in Oklahoma. Monastic discernment is based on the Rule of Benedict and has its bedrock in the Scriptures. Chapter 72, entitled ‘The Good Zeal of Monastics’, has always been a personal barometer and touchstone in my own journey.

By Sister Anne Stedman, OSB

By Sister Ana Cloughly, OSB; Director of Contemplative Vision

On Saturday January 30, Bishop Sheridan celebrated World Day of Consecrated Life (Feb. 2, 2019) at Benet Hill Monastery -a special Mass to honor all consecrated persons in our diocese and around the world. Many religious orders are represented in the Diocese of Colorado Springs as well as two consecrated virgins. At Mass, we recognized Benedictine, Franciscan and Salesian sisters and one Capuchin brother with vows of 25, 50, 60, 70 and 85 years. Yes, Sister Genevieve Pfeifer is a Franciscan sister who began her vowed life in 1934. Wow! In his homily, Bishop Sheridan thanked our honorees for their selfless service throughout their years of religious life. He also emphasized that consecrated life is about prayer and service according to the example of Christ. We often think of religious women and men as teachers or working with people who live in poverty. However, a vocation begins in prayer and depends on a life of prayer to sustain a commitment of daily service to others. After Mass, we enjoyed a lovely lunch in our dining room.

Celebrating Consecrated Life Celebrating Consecrated Life

Last fall, the Leadership Conference of Women Religious put out a plea for sisters available to minister to the migrants on our border. Our own Sister Evangeline responded immediately and traveled to El Paso. The account of her daily experiences ministering to our sisters and brothers from Central America and Mexico touched me and deepened my understanding of the need to embrace patiently the weaknesses of body and the hope of the people she has experienced. The following dialogue from December 10th, 2018 combines her experience of the day and the seventh station, the Second Fall of Jesus.

“Just as there is a wicked zeal of bitterness which separates from God and leads to hell, so there is a good zeal which separates

from evil and leads to God and everlasting life. This, then is the good zeal which members must foster with fervent love:

‘They should each try to be the first to show respect to the other’(Rom. 12:10), supporting with the greatest patience one another’s weaknesses

of body or behavior, and earnestly competing in obedience to one another. No monastics are to pursue what they judge better for themselves,

but instead, what they judge better for someone else. (and) Let them prefer nothing whatever to Christ, and may

Christ bring us all together to everlasting life.” A Spirituality for the 21st Century The Rule of Benedict Sister Joan Chittister, OSB

“We had 400 people released today and among the receiving places we operate, we could only accommodate 335. We had no room in the inn. Tonight, I ask, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, ‘How did it feel to fall and fall again? Did you ever stop to think you might not make it? Did it occur to you, sweet Jesus, that you might not be able to save us? And what if you could only save a few of us? What about the 65 outside, cold and hungry, and needing to go to the bathroom?’ Tomorrow, thank God, is another day. The sun will rise and warm the streets and we will all awake with renewed strength and a brighter vision. We will rise with you, Jesus, and know that you have cared for those we could not. Amen. Blessed be God.”

Franciscan Sister Immaculata Park celebrates her jubilee. Bishop Sheridan

presided at this special liturgy.

Sister Evangeline Salazar, OSB (in red) shares in the meal provided for families at the border.

Sister Evangeline receives a gift from one of the immigrants.

Monastic Spirituality in MinistryMonastic Spirituality in Ministry

“Be joyful always.” -1 Thessalonians 5:16

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Monastery Shines Light on the DarknessMonastery Shines Light on the Darkness

The Colorado Springs Barefoot MileJune 8, 2019 @ 9:30 AM

Lewis Palmer Don Breese Stadium

Proceeds from this event fights trafficking through these Colorado non-profits.

Lewis Palmer Stadium 1300 Higby Rd. Monument, Co. 80132

June 8, 2019 Check in: 9:30 AM, Walk at 10:00 AM For more information or to register to walk,

visit www.thebarefootmile.org or text COSBFM to 50155

BBQ lunch & drinks donated by local Knights of Columbus.

Sponsors for this event.

By Sister Rose Ann Barmann, OSB; Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinator

The Sisters of Benet Hill, in their fight against human trafficking, have offered a raising awareness series for the community of El Paso county for the past 4 years. The program offers educational awareness, personal stories of survival, and ways to fight against human trafficking. Over two hundred participants were empowered and motivated to act against a very dark evil plaguing us locally and around the globe: the exploitation of vulnerable women and children.

In our first session, Sunshyne Powell from the Department of Human Services presented “The Scope of Human Trafficking in our County.” She shared the following disturbing statistics:

• Majority of human trafficking in the US is for sexual exploitation. • Human trafficking is a 150-billion-dollar business, the 2nd largest and fastest growing criminal enterprise behind the drug trade and tied with illegal arms. • The average age a person becomes the victim of sex trafficking in the US is between 11-14 years old. • Between 100,000 - 300,000 minors are trafficked in the US each year. • 1 in 3 runaways will be approached by a trafficker within the first 48 hrs.

During the third week, Molly Griffith representing, “Truckers Against Trafficking” informed us on how the trucking and busing industries educate, equip, empower and mobilize their employees to combat human trafficking. She shared truckers’ poignant stories of individuals rescued from traffickers due to their efforts.

On the final evening, Kelly Dore, a survivor of familial trafficking, courageously shared her story of childhood trafficking in a Colorado home and within a very well-respected family. She made us aware that instances of familial trafficking are as prevalent as commercial sex trafficking. Kelly is the Executive Director of the National Human Trafficking Survivor Coalition and has tireless compassion for victims of trafficking.

Please join the Sisters of Benet Hill and School District 38, on Saturday, June 8th as we sponsor a Barefoot Mile Walk to raise funds for our fight against human trafficking locally and globally. Call Colorado Human Trafficking Hot line 1-866-455-5075; National Hot line: 1-888-373-888 to report any suspicious behaviors that you observe. You may save a life!

The following week, Attorney Dan O ’Bryant, AFA graduate and board member of The National Center on Sexual Exploitation, challenged us to a “Call to Action: What the Military Can and Should Do About Sex Trafficking”. His presentation provoked much interest and curiosity as Colorado Springs is home to five military installations.

WALK A BAREFOOT MILE RAISING AWARENESS AND FUNDS TO FIGHT TRAFFICKING LOCALLY AND GLOBALLY.

Human Trafficking issue affects people of all ages

walk for freedom

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By Sister Margaret Meaney, OSB

I was recently on pilgrimage to the Holy Land with a group of forty-seven people, including my sister Nancy.

We started at the birthplace of Jesus, continued on to Ein Karem, birthplace of John the Baptist, and the Visitation Church.

In the days that followed, we went to the Garden of Gethsemane, celebrated Mass celebrated on the Rock of Agony. We then proceeded to the Via Dolorosa, the Chapel of Flagellation, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

We also enjoyed excursions through the Judean wilderness, the shores of the dead sea, to Qumran the location of the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls. From there we could see the Mount of Temptation.

Pilgrimage to the Holy LandPilgrimage to the Holy Land

By Sister Mary Jane Vigil, OSB; Liturgy Director

The 57th Study Week of the Southwest Liturgical Conference was held In Houston, TX from January 23 to 26. Sister Josie and I joined a thousand people from nearly all the southwestern states, as well as other parts of the country. The conference was hosted by the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and the Archbishop of Galveston-Houston Daniel Cardinal DiNardo.

The theme for this year was “Encountering the Sacred: Beauty and the Liturgy” and stressed the power of “beauty as a transcendental to evangelize, open our eyes, and lift up our hearts to the Lord.” (from the welcoming address of Cardinal DiNardo)

Our days began and ended with morning and evening prayers and throughout the days we were treated to both national and internationally known speakers, to include the Most Reverend J. Michael Miller, Archbishop of Vancouver, Canada, The Most Reverend Steven J. Lopes, first bishop of the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter, Sister Rosemary Esseff, OP, Dr. Denis McNamara, and Dr. Johan Van Parys and many others. They all reminded us that the sacred liturgy, brought to life through the prayerful ministry of those who serve and participate, is a work of art. Every word, gesture, and symbol within the Liturgy has the potential of moving us to a deeper encounter with the God who gathers us and the Body of Christ to which we belong.

During the breakout sessions we were shown how we can be fully aware of the beauty that is created and shared through liturgical ministry (i.e. gestures, actions, etc.) and how to help the assembly recognize its own dignity and beauty as the Body of Christ. Speakers shared their expertise in Eucharist and Sacramental ministries and included areas such as presiders, preaching/homiletics, cantor/ choirs, music, proclaimers, environment, iconography, art and architecture, RCIA, devotional prayers, liturgical seasons, Liturgy and spirituality in Religious Education, Sacramental preparation, ministering to the marginalized and many more. The days were filled with learning. On Friday morning all attendees were bused downtown to the Cathedral for a Mass in honor of the Conversion of St. Paul. Later in the evening, the Cathedral choir hosted a Sacred Music Concert showcasing music from publishers who participated in the conference as exhibitors.

We renewed our baptismal vows at the baptismal site on the Jordan River near Jericho and so much more.

My prayers during the pilgrimage were for the sisters of Benet Hill and their intentions, for the welfare of all who are associated with Benet Hill in any way, for all immigrants and asylum seekers throughout the world, the United States, and the strengthening of democracies everywhere, and in gratitude for the graciousness of the people who made the pilgrimage a memorable success for me and my companions on the journey.

The scriptures are even more alive for me and I am struck by the beauty of Lent and Easter and the reason for our hope.

Pilgrimage group that Sister Margaret traveled with in the Holy Land.

Jordan River

Southwest Liturgical ConferenceSouthwest Liturgical Conference

L to R: Sisters Mary Jane Vigil and Josie Sanchez, OSB at the conference.

“Joy is the infallible sign of the presence of God.“ -Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

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“This is what the Lord asks of you, only this, to act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with your God.”  -Micah 6:8

“Spiritual direction is having someone accompany you on your life’s journey in your relationship with God. Having been married and lived outside of a monastery for most of my life, I understand about, ‘everyday spirituality in the trenches.’ I am privileged to journey with a person in the ups and downs of their life, while discovering the gifts of Spirit. Growing into a deeper relationship with God, is the purpose and gift of spiritual direction.” -Sister Mary Teresa Hicks, OSB

Contact: Sister Therese O’Grady, OSB stherese@benethillmonastery.org

Phone: (719) 473-8764

In August, 1968, I was in that wheelbarrow!

I was a pilot in the Air Force. More specifically the aircraft commander of a C-130 transport flying the Atlantic Ocean toward the east coast of the United States. Our destination was Charleston Air Force Base, South Carolina. The C-130 is a 4-engine turbo prop jet aircraft capable of flying for over eight hours, certainly more hours than necessary to reach our destination - except for one thing, WEATHER.

A hurricane over Bermuda, south of our course, had created severe 150 MPH headwinds in our path which we discovered … too late!

“Ken,” I asked my navigator, “What is our ETA (estimated time of arrival) at Charleston?” After too many minutes of figuring came Ken’s reply, “Bill, we’re not going to make it!!”

I remember so clearly my feelings at that moment. I was not scared; rather, I remember shouting at God, “You’re NOT going to have me go this way. Now come on God, get me through this!” Clearly, I felt God’s presence. I was not at all fearful, but positive God would answer me.

“Ken, draw a circle and the first place the circle hits land is our destination.” It was Myrtle Beach AFB and it saved us 45 miles. As I turned the aircraft a few degrees, looking on to the Myrtle Beach Navigational Aid (called TACAN) it read 169 miles out. We could see the runway; the night was so clear. If you’ve ever seen the runway approach lights from a distance at night, they shine in the form of a cross. At that moment, all red low-fuel lights came on. A pilot’s warning to land immediately. At best, he has 20 minutes of fuel left

and we were 169 miles out, netting a ground speed of 170 miles per hour!

“God, I know you will get us there!”

I shut down the air conditioner and we all went on oxygen to preserve even a few more drops of fuel. Ken poured over the fuel charts to set the throttles “just right” for the most effective fuel consumption and glide slope to the runway. It never crossed my mind, the awful fact, that a C-130 without engine power will not glide well as it will lose the booster system needed to control the aircraft. We just held our breath and I called the tower, “Minimum fuel, no go arounds!”

We crossed the end of the runway, touched down … I threw the propellers into reverse to stop the aircraft and ALL FOUR ENGINES QUIT! They towed us into the ramp.

I asked my maintenance sergeant to check the fuel in the tanks. In a C-130 one can almost climb inside. I’ll never forget the expression on his face as he reported back “Major, there isn’t a drop of fuel in any tank. It’s as if someone blow-torched them dry!” (There is always some fuel sloshing around in a gas tank when any jet engine flames out.)

I ran into my navigator, Ken, a few years ago at an Air Force Academy football game. I quite naturally tried to “relive our moment together.” Surprisingly, he seemed to have pushed it out of his mind and seemed not to want to discuss it.

But, for me, it will always be the precious moment in my life when I recognized I had been given the most priceless gift..I had been given the gift of knowing I had FAITH … and TRUST in God!

By Bill Frier, Major USAF, Retired & Friend of the Sisters of Benet Hill

Have you considered spiritual direction?

By Sister Therese O’Grady, Coordinator for Spiritual Direction

Each person seeking spiritual direction may have a specific need or focus and we offer a variety of approaches. Each sister who ministers in spiritual direction has her own style and personality. We can prayerfully match you to a sister or you may have someone in mind. No matter where you live in the country, we offer this ministry: face to face, by telephone, and online by teleconferencing via“the cloud”. All spiritual direction is confidential and secure with our technology.

The Sisters of Benet Hill invite you to explore your relationship with God through spiritual direction. Please make your initial contact with Sister Therese O’Grady and she will help you find a Spiritual Director.

“Spiritual Direction has been an integral part of my personal journey since 1976. Serving as a spiritual director continues to be a special gift. Together we notice how God is working in our lives and we give thanks.“ -Sister Anne Stedman, OSB

Spiritual Direction Ministry at the MonasterySpiritual Direction Ministry at the Monastery

story continued...God was My Co-Pilotstory continued...God was My Co-Pilot

“If you carry joy in your heart, you can heal any moment.”

-Carlos Santana

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Sound the Trumpets! The Global Online Benedictine Spiritual Direction Program graduated 14 students as certified spiritual directors on April 24, 2019. I confirm with deep gratitude that each graduate is gifted in this holistic, healing and contemplative ministry. The generous sharing of each graduate’s wisdom created a soul space necessary for authentic human connection. This wisdom blended with love, reverence and the ability to listen intently to the “other’s story” are foundational pillars of this program. Benedictine values change lives, hearts, how we relate to others, and increases our ability to see Divine goodness in everyone served. I thank each one of you for your commitment to one another and to this program. God Bless.

“Bless you for creating and sustaining the safe container in which we can do this work. You are such a welcoming non-judgmental presence, a light.  Thank you. A deep bow, m’dear...” -Barbara Nehls-Lowe; Wisconsin

“May I take this opportunity to thank you and your team, this course has been so life giving for our sisters, truly the best course yet taken on by them. It has so enriched their spiritual lives and the rest of us are reaping the benefits in their insights. You have not heard the last from this part of the world! Many thanks.” -Sister Hilda Scott, OSB, Abbess; Australia Group of Sisters

Global Online Contact: Sister Mary Colleen Schwarz, OSB; Global Online Coordinatorsmarycolleen@benethillmonastery.org(719) 633-0655 Ext. 134

2019 Global Online Benedictine Spiritual Direction Program Graduates

By Sister Mary Colleen Schwarz, OSB; Global Online Coordinator

Laurie GudiumFort Collins, CO

Douglas SunderlandCody, WY

Linda PaysingerLittleton, CO

Jane Gillies,Bailey, CO

Jen VariaMontana

Suanne JohnsonClancy, MT

Ruth Ann BohlerMontrose, CO

Sarah SchererLittleton, CO

Camille HarrisonManitou Springs, CO

Kay DayColorado Springs, CO

Carolyn Koehler,Centennial, CO

Sonja SolterLouisville, CO

Taryn JostLittleton, CO

The Reverend Susan Dryer,Saratoga, WY

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you

may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” -Romans 15:13

Sound the Trumpets!Sound the Trumpets!

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Benet Hill Academy Alumnae News

Benet Hill Academy Alumnae News

In deepest sympathy we remember our dear alumnae and their families who have lost loved ones.

Kaylene Howard Kohl ‘75 and Jamie Howard ‘73 (Deceased) for the loss of their mother, Linnie Howard.

Debra Peake Humphrey ‘75, Allison Peake Kowatch ‘77 and Roxanna Peake Crawford for the

loss of their father, Robert Peake.

Laura Hazelett Brown ‘78, Robin Hazelett ’80 and Stacie Hazelett Knight ‘80 for the loss of their mother, Sylvia Hazelett.

Debra Zorn Green ‘70,  Niki Zorn Waters ‘72 and Jolene Zorn Middlestadt ‘69-‘71 for the

loss of their father, Edwin Zorn

Maureen Lynch ‘82 and Kathy Lynch ‘85 for the loss of their father, Bob Lynch

Brenda Ishmael Gossage ‘82 for the loss of her father, Chuck Ishmael

Kathy Gentile Thirkell ‘75 for the loss of her father, Dr. Joseph Gentile

Cindy Canty Johannes ’75 for the loss of her husband, Kevin Johannes

For the loss of our classmates: Ruth Ann Rubeck Tryon 72 and Kathy Stegensek Williams’77

The Sisters of Benet Hill send their condolences and prayers to alumnae who lost family members this past year. We each journey on the path of life and find comfort and solace from one another when we embrace the loss of our loved ones. Please know each of you are surrounded in prayer and love.

Reminder: Our annual Benet Hill Academy reunion is scheduled for July 27-28, 2019 to honor the Class of 1969 (50 years) and the Class of 1979 (40 years.) The weekend is for ALL classes; all are WELCOME. Arrival for the Saturday gathering is between 11:30-12:00. Sunday’s event begins at 10:00 am.

Sandra Damron is the coordinator for the class of 1969 and we still need a volunteer or two to coordinate activities for the class of 1979. Remember to call or e-mail Sister Lucile to confirm your attendance. 719-633-0655 Ext. 118 or email: benethill@juno.com

By Sister Lucile Hartmann, OSB

A Day in the Life...

Sister Rose Ann Barmann, OSB spoke to various Knights of Columbus Councils within the Diocese of Colorado Springs at St. Gabriel’s parish to share information on human trafficking and how dangerous and prevalent it is locally and globally. She invited the Knights to the Human Trafficking Prevention Series sponsored by Benet Hill Monastery in January and February.

She also spoke to The Forum (adult class) at First Congregational Church in Colorado Springs on February 24th. Sister Rose Ann shared statistics and information on the human trafficking crisis in El Paso County and the Denver area.

Sister Clare Carr, OSB comments on the 12 Step Spirituality Meetings held the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm.

“This has been a profound experience of vulnerability and intimacy where 15-20 of us gather together two evenings every month to reflect on 12 Step Spirituality. We are respectful of the privacy of each individual, but yet encounter men and women who share their hearts, their brokenness and their encounter with the Divine. I have never before been with a group who offer me the safety to be my true self. It is truly a rare event.

We will continue to meet until December 2019 and I hope to continue to grow in my awareness of the Divine presence among us.” - Sister Clare Carr, OSB

A Day in the LifeA Day in the LifeCompiled by Gina Berger, Communications Director

The Colorado Springs Meditation Circle has retreated at our retreat center in Black Forest for over 20 years. Sisters Clare

Carr, Josie Sanchez and Phyllis Echterling, OSB ran the retreat center at one time or another many years ago before the new

monastery was built in 2009.

“When you do things from your soul, you feel a river

moving in you, a joy.” -Rumi

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Mission AdvancementMission Advancement

We are grateful to our donors for all your support of the sisters’ mission and programs throughout the year.

Did you know? Almost 1/3 of all the gifts we receive in a year are given in the last two months of the year. Fall Appeal generated over $63,000 in donations. Your generosity helped to raise $13,660 on Colorado Gives Day, a 24-hour day of giving for hundreds of participating Colorado-based charities.

Monthly and weekly donors are the foundation of support for the sisters, and to both honor those donors as well as invite others to join them, we hosted a St. Scholastica Giving Circle potluck supper on Saturday, February 9th, the eve of the Feast of St. Scholastica. Thank you to the donors who joined our 44 Giving Circle members.

If you wish to join our monthly Giving Circle, contact Sonja Ragaller at sragaller@benethillmonastery.org or complete the online giving form on our website.

In late 2018, Benet Hill Monastery was invited to be one of ten monastic communities throughout the United States, to be part of a three-year program funded by the Conrad Hilton Foundation, GHR Foundation, and Indiana University’s Lilly School of Philanthropy. At an opening conference in December, Sister Clare Carr, OSB, Sister Margaret Meaney, OSB, and our Mission Advancement office, met with representatives of the Lake Institute and member communities.

This Spring, the Institute is underwriting an in-depth study of our Mission Advancement program, the outcome of which will guide us in applying for up to $50,000 in additional funding, allowing us to implement new initiatives that will grow our culture of philanthropy.

Lake Institute of the Lilly School of Philanthropy includes Benet Hill in

National Program

St. Scholastica Giving Circle Potluck Supper

By Gina Berger, Communications Director

The Sisters of Benet Hill Monastery have updated and refreshed their website. The web address is the same (www.benethillmonastery.org), but the look and navigation is a bit different. Please browse our site and explore the new design and features. Invite others to also visit our site. We hope you like what you see and can easily find the information you are seeking.

Left: Landing page

Top Right: Landing Page-Introduction video featuring

Sister Clare

Bottom Right: New Programs page

New Website Launch!New Website Launch!

Many donors, guests and sisters enjoyed the potluck supper as they build community

through sharing a meal together.

“There are those who give with joy, and that joy is their

reward.” -Khalil Gibran

In Gratitude!

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12 Step Spirituality Meeting

The Twelve Steps to Spirituality meetings at Benet Hill Monastery continue to be a beautiful gift of Spirit to more than twenty-five individuals who regularly join us on the second and fourth Wednesday evenings of the month. Most attending are new to the monastery, but have since found Benet Hill to be a “A place of hope and hospitality for the world.”

By Vincent Crowder, Oblate Novice

A Poem for All

Come join us gently,softly, lovingly.

Glide seamlessly,in, through, around.

Not a sound,not a flare, but

A simple certitudeyou are here.

Now, Before, and After.Timelessly.

With thanks to all who shared this retreat and inspired this poem. A tender and special thanks to Sister Therese and Leslee. - Anonymous

Ministry UpdateMinistry Update

A retreatant expresses gratitude in a poem after their weekend retreat led by Sister Therese O’Grady, OSB and Leslee Terpay.

Centering Prayer Weekend Retreat

Tuesdays, 9:30 am – 11:30 am 2019: Sept. 10, and Nov. 12.

2020: Jan. 14, March 10, May 12

We are looking forward to another year of R.E.A.D. (Read Engage And Discuss) at Benet Hill Monastery starting in September! Thanks to the enthusiasm and support from participants last year, we are excited to continue and are currently in the process of selecting five new books. Your suggestions for book titles are greatly appreciated and should be sent to Sister Rose Ann Barmann by June 30:sroseann@benethillmonastery.org.

This book club is designed to use the Benedictine practices of reading, listening and engaging others with “the ear of our heart” to impact our spirituality and our lives. We hope through the discussion of each book to be led into a deeper sacred space in our hearts and to learn how to listen openly to the wisdom of the group. We invite you to join us for one or more of the sessions. If you cannot attend, please purchase books (available in our gift shop) and read along with us. The program is free and we accept donations in support of this ministry. Look for more information in upcoming monastery emails.

FORTE HANDBELL QUARTET played in the Concert Series this year. We have some exciting new concerts coming in 2019-2020 season.

Many participants now attend mass with us and express joy and gratitude for the welcome received at our Sunday Liturgy. We are equally grateful they have accepted the invitation of a deeper relationship with the Divine.

Oct. 27, 2019: USAFA Schola Choir under the direction of Katherine JohnsonJan. 12, 2020: Parish House Baroque “Twelfth Night”Feb. 23, 2020: Colin McAllister, guitar with Derek Keller, countertenorMar. 22, 2020: Crystal Creek Folk EnsembleMay 3, 2020: Dr. Zahari Metchkov, piano and Dr. Timothy Hsu, violin

Save the DatesBy Eileen Beuler, Retreat Coordinator

All concerts are held on Sunday afternoons and begin at 2:30 pm.

2019-20120 Chamber Concert Series2019-20120 Chamber Concert Series R.E.A.D.R.E.A.D.

Benet Hill Monastery3190 Benet LaneColorado Springs, CO 80921-1509

Non-profit Org.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDColorado Springs

COPermit No. 576RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Benet Hill Monastery * 3190 Benet Ln. * Colorado Springs, CO 80921* PH:719-633-0655The Monastery is situated in the woodland setting of the Black Forest

located in northeast Colorado Springs, off Highway 83.

By Shari Silva, Boutique Manager Phone: 719-282-0316

8674 N. Union Blvd. Next to Safeway

Store Hours:

Monday - Friday 10:00 am -5:30 pm Saturdays 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Follow Us on Facebook to see our latest deals~search for Sisters’ Thrift & Boutique

We had an amazing first quarter at Sisters’ Thrift & Boutique. As people cleaned out their closets and homes as part of their annual spring cleaning, we busily processed their much-appreciated donations. In February, we closed for a few days to replace carpeting and to freshen up the walls with a new coat of paint. After reopening, we received wonderful feedback from the customers. Our volunteers and managers work hard to provide a clean, tidy and organized thrift store for your enjoyable shopping experience and we stock new items daily. Please visit and see for yourself.

Sisters’ Thrift & Boutique gets a “refresh” with new carpeting.

Right: a special guest makes a surprise visit to the boutique right

before Easter.Visit, Volunteer, Donate!

Sisters’ Thrift & Boutique Celebrate Sixth AnniversarySisters’ Thrift & Boutique Celebrate Sixth Anniversary

Sept. 13, 2019: The IF ProjectOct. 18, 2019: Hear and NowJan. 17, 2020: Breakfast at Ina’s Pickle – short filmMarch 13, 2020: Lessons from a School Shooting: Notes from Dunblane Sin by SilenceMay 1, 2020: Heaven is a Traffic Jam on the 405

Save the Dates

All films are held on Friday evenings and begin at 6:30 pm.This is a FREE series.

2019- 2020 Film Series2019- 2020 Film Series

The Review is published three times per year by Benet Hill Monastery of Colorado Springs, CO, Inc., 3190 Benet Lane, Colorado Springs, CO 80921-1509 PHONE: 719/633-0655 FAX: 719/471-0403 EMAIL: info@benethillmonastery.org WEBSITE: www.benethillmonastery.orgEDITOR/LAYOUT/DESIGN - Gina Berger, Communications Director; Assisted by Barbara Lynette, Online Communications Assistant

CONTRIBUTORS - Sisters and staff of Benet Hill Monastery, students, alumnae and friends.