A period of discernment is critical in the vocation process.  As we attentively listen and open ourselves to the will of God, a path becomes clear.  The length of time it takes to discern a monastic vocation varies from woman to woman.  A spiritual director or a formal vocation discernment group can be very helpful during this important step.  Within each community, it is the Vocation Director who walks with each woman as she seeks the answers to two very important questions:

1) Is God calling me to monastic life?

2) Is God calling me to this monastic community? 

     The Benedictine Sisters of Virginia host several discernment weekends throughout the year to interested single, Catholic women who have these questions.  We give them the opportunity to experience a monastic community and the Vocation Team members present on various aspects of monastic life and the Benedictine charism.  Participants have time to absorb, reflect and pray as well as join the monastic community for the Liturgy of the Hours, meals, work and holy leisure.  Many women find the support of other women in discernment to be particularly helpful.  Attending a discernment weekend will put you in touch with others who are seeking God’s will in their lives.  Contact our Director of Vocation Ministry, Sister Vicki, at vocations@osbva.org if you are interested in attending the next discernment weekend for new seekers.

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