Monastery Happenings

Our first Snowfall Winter 2012- And the Birds Scamper for Food

2012-01-25T13:07:00.000-08:00

Life is precious at all levels

2012-01-22T05:51:00.000-08:00

By Deacon Greg Kandra
I have office hours the first Saturday of every month, to meet with families and schedule baptisms. It’s fairly routine, mostly collecting paperwork and filling out forms. But a few years ago, there was one meeting that I will never forget. It was anything but routine.
A young mother arrived at the office, filled out the forms and, after she’d finished, I looked it over and noticed that she’d left a couple spaces blank.
“You forgot something, “ I said. “You didn’t fill in the father’s name and religion.”
There was a long pause. She said quietly: “I don’t know who the father is.”
And then she explained:
“I was raped.”
I didn’t quite know what to say. I stammered an apology, and we talked for a few minutes. And at the end, as she got up to leave, I shook her hand and thanked her. I told that that I thought what she was doing was very courageous.
“Well,” she said, “It’s life. You do what you have to do.”
I saw her a few weeks later, at the baptism. Seeing her — holding that baby in her arms, sharing that moment with family and friends — one thing was clear: that child will never lack for love. Whatever may have brought that young life into being, that child was welcomed. That child is loved.
This weekend, in particular, that mother and her child are both on my mind and in my prayers. They remind me of something we need to remember:
We are people of life.
We value it. We believe in resurrection. In healing. In hope.
“I am the way, the truth, and the life,” Jesus once said.
We are people who follow the way, and seek the truth.
We are people of life.
And this Sunday, we pause to declare that to the world. We put on purple vestments and offer special prayers to note a sad milestone: it was 39 years ago today that the Supreme Court legalized abortion. We may not be wearing the sackcloth of the people of Nineveh, from the first reading. But this is a sign of sorrow, and mourning. It’s the same color we wear during Lent, a time of prayer and repentance.
You’ll hear a lot of people – including a lot of prominent Catholics – tell you that they are “personally opposed” to abortion, but they think it should still be legal. It might be useful to look at what that kind of thinking has given us, and what it means.
It means that today, 22% of pregnancies – one in five – end in abortion.
It means that 47% of the women who have had abortions – nearly half – have had more than one. Three quarters say they had abortions because a child would interfere with their job or education.
It means that, on average, there are 3,500 abortions every day in this country.
That sounds abstract. So let me make it real. That’s approximately the same number of people who attended Mass here Christmas Day.
Looked at another way: statistically, by the time you leave Mass this morning, another 145 innocent lives will be lost.
Years ago, Cardinal Joseph Bernardin spoke of the “seamless garment” of life issues, and how they are all connected. Some people dismiss that today and insist that all life issues are not created equal. That’s true, to a point.
But a culture that devalues life, that doesn’t respect life, won’t just draw the line at abortion. It goes further than that.
That culture creates an environment that cheers capital punishment. It’s a culture that legalizes assisted suicide. It supports torture and the degradation of human dignity. It enables bullying. It objectifies and devalues the human person in pornography.
And, as we learned just this past Friday: that culture considers religious freedom, and the human conscience — a personal sense of right and wrong, of good and evil — irrelevant. The government ruled that every major employer, including religious institutions, now have to offer free contraceptive coverage as part of their health plans – no exceptions. That includes the “morning after” abortion pill and sterilization.
A culture that doesn’t respect life will do all this and wrap it in the warm and unthreatening blanket, the seamless garment, of “choice” and “freedom.”
This is our world today.
But it doesn’t have to be our world tomorrow.
Last week, one of the presidential candidates said in a debate – and I paraphrase – that laws can’t change a country’s values. It’s the other way around.
Values, he said, have to change our laws.
He’s right.
Marching, protesting, campaigning, lobbying…all this can have an effect. But it can only do so much.
The real work, the important work, the hardest work happens in our neighborhoods, in our churches, in our homes, in our families.
It’s conversations around the dinner table and lessons in the living room. It’s teaching our children that we are people of life. It’s raising them to love those who are weak, to protect those who are vulnerable, to respect those who are different.
But are we even paying attention?
In the gospel we just heard, Jesus called his first apostles while they were mending their nets. They dropped what they were doing, and followed him.
Too often, I think, we ourselves are too busy mending our own nets. We are consumed by the mundane realities of daily life, and are too distracted to hear what is really important. We miss Christ’s call to conversion, to repentance – the call, as we heard, to “believe in the Gospel.”
Especially now, it is nothing less than a call to be people of life.
To be people who cherish life in all its complexity and confusion…and in all its sanctity.
To be people who not only shake our heads in sorrow over the state of our world, but who bow our heads in prayer and lift up our heads in hope.
We are people of life. We are Catholic Christians. In the second century, Christians did what the pagans wouldn’t: in the midst of a plague, they cared for those no one else would care for. The great theologian Tertullian wrote that it moved the pagans to say: “See how these Christians love one another.” This is our legacy and our mandate: to protect and defend and, yes, love the most vulnerable – the old, the sick, the abused, the abandoned, the forgotten, the unborn.
That is our way. We are people of life.
In doing that, in living out our call – and answering it, like the disciples on the seashore – we will one day help bring about the change we so ardently pray for every year on this terrible anniversary.
What that young mother told me a few years ago was more than pragmatic. It was, in a way, prophetic. “It’s life,” she said. “You do what you have to do.”
This is what we have to do. And if we do, we will change the values of our culture.
That will change the laws.
And one day, all that we hope and pray for this Sunday will be realized.
We won’t be marching in Washington. We won’t be preaching on this from the pulpit. We won’t be wearing purple.
And January 22^nd will be just another day on the calendar.

Deacon Greg Kandra is a Roman Catholic deacon serving the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York. A veteran broadcast journalist, Deacon Greg worked for 26 years as a writer and producer for CBS News in both New York and Washington. He now serves as the Executive Editor of ONE, the acclaimed magazine published by the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA). In addition to receiving two awards from the Catholic Press Association, Deacon Greg has been honored with every major award in broadcasting, including two George Foster Peabody Awards, two Emmy Awards, and four awards from the Writers Guild of America.

A link on Martin Luther King Jr. found on Catholic Charities Link- Happy Birthday Martin Luther King Jr.

2012-01-16T07:07:00.000-08:00

www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/keepthedreamalive

Our Visit with Friar Tom Hartle OFM from the Holy Name Province

2012-01-16T06:46:00.000-08:00

Our friend and brother, Friar Tom Hartle OFM, paid us a visit and as usual we all loved the time Tom spent with us. Tom's Homilies at the Eucharist Celebration were very good for us and we appreciate him. Thank you, Tom, for your many kindnesses to us.

Christmas Around the Monastery- Sisters sing the Martyology Christmas Eve Morn- Sr. Miriam blesses the Christmas Trees and Crib-Friar Francis and Friar Primo visit New Years Day- Our decorations for the dining Table for Christmas

2012-01-02T12:12:00.000-08:00

O Emmanuel, Ruler and Lawgiver, Desire of all nations, Savior of all people:Come and set us free, O God.

2011-12-21T12:24:00.001-08:00

The Collage of Events of 2011

Friar Steve Kluge OFM, blessed the new grave stones for Sister Marge and Sister Shirley.

Sister Nelia and Sister Karen received the Poor Clare habit on January 15th and January 17th respectively . Roberta Peters is a young woman who is interested in our Poor Clare Life.

Friar Michael Lasky was celebrate for our Holy Week Services. Saint Clare began her way of following Francis on Palm Sunday 1212 so it is 800 years that the Poor Clare Life has been part of our world. The picture with the Sisters holding Palm Branches is symbolic of this beginning.

Book Club: Sisters Agnes, Mary Frances and Natalie are discussing our book "The Poor Sisters of Saint Clare:Their Form of Life and Identity,by Sister Diana Papa OSC

Friar Kyle came for our Saint Clare Transitus and the Mass next day. His picture is small and pious looking. Can you find it???

August Picnic: to celebrate the beginning of our 800 Celebration of our way of life The Capuchin Poor Clares of Wilmington, Delaware joined us for a day of Prayer and Play.

Celebrations" Sister Miriam celebrated 50 years of Poor Clare Life and Sister Donna celebrated 25 years. Thank you for witness to us and to the world our Gospel Way of Life.

Workshop: Friar Jim Van Vurst OFM from the Cincinnati Province , shared with us "Life as a Journey" and also showed us how to do watercolor paintings.

Friar John O'Connor OFM Provincial of the Holy Name Province came for a visit and we were all glad to meet him.

Our Sister Mary McCourt's memorial is on an older post.

A Musing on Christmas and the Incarnation

The coming of the Peace of Peace,

The coming of His reign.
Enough-

for the dumb to speak

Enough

for the deaf to hear.

But wait

no one seems to care.

The poet of the season stands

The poet of the season bids

All Creation

leap for joy-

All the beasts

dance with gladness

But wait

we're busy at the malls.

The God of peace looks down

The God of mercy waits

For the world,

weary and wayward,

For us...

who poke around in darkness.

But wait,

many begin to see.

Love comes down as a Babe-

Love comes down for us.

It looks

so good on paper-

it passes for the Truth.

But wait,

The Truth -
God does dwell with us-

Our Emmanuel.

Chriatmas Window Sills decorated for Christmas

2011-12-18T07:41:00.000-08:00

Memorial for Sister Mary McCourt OSC

2011-12-05T16:52:00.000-08:00

Our Sister Mary loved Rainbows and the morning she died, Saturday December 3, 2011 there was a rainbow over our woods and it had not been raining.

Sr. Mary died peacefully in her sleep and now is in His presence for all eternity and interceding

for us here on earth.

Remember, Mary, to send us two good women to be Poor Clares and if you want, send a dog like Maggie whom you loved very much.

Here is the musing from Sr. Mary's 25th Anniversary of her Profession 1984:

The Mosaic of a Life

Moments of joy, pockets of pain

fuse with all the yesterdays-

held together by right faith, firm hope,

perfect charity, the ideal.

the mosaic of your life.

Dark colors and shadowy hues,

place in relief

the contrasting brilliance of goodness,

bringing before the world

and announcing to all

the light comes from Him.

Who else could do it.

Fashioned by events,

Your parents, family, friends,

you burn to be earthy colors

at one with the Son of Man

"who did not deem equality with

God something to be grasped at."

He chose and you choose in

profound humility

to be simply life the rest of humanity-

to be no more or no less than

who you are,

with your feet firmly planted on the earth,

with flights of fancy now and then

to the sky of blue.

Your love of the rainbow

reveals your hidden desire

to be, in wisdom and perception,

"All things to all people"

The mosaic of your life-

the rainbow -

Behold this rainbow

and Bless your Maker,"

For that s where

Glory belongs

S Florence OSC

ADVENT 2011 -A SEASON OF HOPE- And a Dedication in memory of Vincent Cannuli

2011-11-30T16:16:00.000-08:00

Vincent M. Cannuli HAMILTON - Vincent M. Cannuli, 64, of Hamilton, NJ, passed away into God's loving care on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011, at home, with his loving family at his side.

We thank Vincent for his work on our website- all done through his generosity. May God reward Vincent's kindness to us.

Carol of Hope

Text by William Gay

Each winter as the year grows older,

We grow older too.

the chill sets in a little colder,

The verities we knew

seem shaken and untrue.

When race and class cry out for treason,

when sirens call for war,

they over shout the voice of reason,

and scream till we ignore

All we held dear before.

Yet I believe beyond believing,

that life can spring from death;

that growth can flower from our grieving;

That we can catch our breath

And turn transfixed by faith.

So even as the sun is turning.

to journey to the north,

The living flame in secret burning,

Can kindle on the earth,

and bring God's love to birth.

O Child of ecstasy and sorrows,

O Prince of Peace and pain,

Brighten today's world by tomorrow's,

Renew our lives again;

Lord Jesus, come and reign!

From Isaiah chapter 40 verse 11:

Like a Shepherd, he will care for his flock,

gathering the lambs in his arms,

hugging them as he carries them,

leading the nursing ewes to good pasture.

Translation The Message.

Our good Shepherd prepares the time, waiting to gather us during this Advent time.

We thank God for His many blessings.

Giving Thanks for all Our Gifts

2011-11-24T04:33:00.000-08:00

For the beauty of the earth,

For the glory of the skies

For the love which from our birth

Over and around us lies

Lord of all to You we raise

This our gift of grateful praise.

For the joy of human love,

brother, sister, parent child

Friends on earth and

Friends above

For all gentle thoughts and mild.

This our gift of grateful praise

Conrad Kocher 1786-1872 Adapt by William H. Monk 1823-1899

Sister Donna celebrated her 25th Anniversary of Entrance to our Poor Clare Form of Life. Thank you, Sister Donna and may God bless you always.

2011-11-13T07:16:00.000-08:00

Father Andrew Reitz OFM, a Holy Name Friar, celebrated Mass and had dinner with us .
We thank him for his continued kindness to us . Sister Donna was grateful too for his presence
and for the whole day.

We thank Sister Donna for the gift that she is to our community.
God be with you, Sister Donna, now and always.

2011-11-07T13:12:00.000-08:00

We are put on the earth a little space that we may learn to bear the beams of love.

William Blake

The Trees around the Monastery are slowly changing. The Trees show their Splendor

2011-10-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken before the October 29th snowfall

Poor Clares Celebrate the Transitus of the Death of St. Francis of Assisi -800 years ago

2011-10-03T16:05:00.000-07:00

Father Peter Cebulka celebrated Mass for us on the Feast of Saint Francis and joined in a festive meal with us

In a simple but beautiful Prayer Service, we here at the Monastery, celebrated quietly the memorial of the death of St. Francis.

We included you in our thoughts, prayers and our hearts.

Happy Feast of Saint Francis.

Sister Miriam celebrated her 50th year of entrance to the Poor Clare way of life, September 24,1961-2011

2011-09-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

The contemplative life, which St. Clare of Assisi loved with all her heart,

inspired Sister Miriam

as a young woman to follow her example. Day after day Sister Miriam and those like her,

surrender their will in little things and help to change the world, though unseen by anyone.

Thank you, Sister Miriam ,for your witness to Gospel Values and congratulations from all your Sisters.

Continued quotes on Gertrude von le Fort's book The Eternal woman

2011-09-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

Christ does not emerge in a struggle against the cross but on the cross just as love always is triumphant in surrender.

Our weakness is our only strength and our surrender to God's will our only victory.

Surrender to God is the only absolute power with which the creature is endowed and to bring about our salvation all we have to contribute is our readiness to give ourselves absolutely and completely.

Pride or surrender is the tremendous alternative.

Gertrud von le Fort Baroness Gertrude von Lefort (1876–1971) is the author of over 20 books (poems, novels and short stories), honorary Doctor of Theology and «the greatest contemporary transcendent poet». Her works are appreciated for their breath-taking profoundness and virtuosity, beauty and actuality of her ideas, and for the sophisticated refinement of the form. Hermann Hesse, who evaluated her talent, proposed her as a candidate for the Nobel Prize.

Von le Fort was born in Westphalia, Germany, and studied at the Universities of Heidelberg and Berlin. A Protestant of Huguenot descent, von le Fort converted early to Catholicism.

Her novel Die Letze am Schafott (The Last or Song at the Scaffold), by far her most famous work, was the basis for Dialogues of the Carmelites. Set during the time........... of the French Revolution, the von le Fort novel tells the story of a troubled, frightened, and strange girl, Blanche de la Force, who has lived in fear from the moment of her birth. To overcome her affliction, she decides to become a nun of Carmel. Little does she know that she is no safer from fear at this convent than in the secular world.

The character of Blanche was von le Fort’s creation, but the other nuns in the story historical figures. Notice the similarity of "von le Fort" to "de la Force." This was no coincidence: much of Gertrud von le Fort’s inspiration for her novel came from her own experiences during World War II and her hatred of Nazism.

She recorded the origin of her 1931 novel: " The point of departure for my creation was not primarily the destiny of the sixteen Carmelites of Compiègne but the figure of the young Blanche. In a historic sense she never lived, but she received the breath of life from my internal spirit, and she cannot be detached from the origin, which is hers. Born in the profound horror of a time darkened by the signs of destiny, this figure arose before me in some way as the embodiment of the mortal agony of an era going totally to its ruin."

Thoughts and quotes from the book:

Forward: Gertrude von Le Fort addresses the topic of the role of woman in the Salvation of the world which is the battlefield between good and veil, life and death.

Since the Garden of Eden the Evil one and the woman have been in the arena.

We have to look on the positive place of woman and not the negative aspect of womanhood.

Her privileges:

1: Her body is not from dust but from the flesh of a human person.

2: She is called "Mother of Life."

3: That the female womb would one day be a tabernacle for the Holy One

It is Mary, the Mother of God, who teaches that receptivity-total openess to God's word-is the royal road to holiness.

To Be continued

In Memory of 9/11 . We at the Monastery join in prayer for all those who died and for those who mourn them.

2011-09-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

Friar Mychal Judge, was the first and most famous victim of the World Trade Center attack, and we in the Franciscan Family remember him in prayer and ask him to intercede for us and the World.

We pray for the firefighters, police and first re-sponders who brought comfort the best they could.

We hold you all in prayer.

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day
Out in the yard with your wife and children
Working on some stage in LA
Did you stand there in shock at the site of
That black smoke rising against that blue sky
Did you shout out in anger
In fear for your neighbor
Or did you just sit down and cry

Did you weep for the children
Who lost their dear loved ones
And pray for the ones who don't know
Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble
And sob for the ones left below

Did you burst out in pride
For the red white and blue
The heroes who died just doing what they do
Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer
And look at yourself to what really matters

I'm just a singer of simple songs
I'm not a real political man
I watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell you
The difference in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith hope and love are some good things he gave us
And the greatest is love

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day
Teaching a class full of innocent children
Driving down some cold interstate
Did you feel guilty cause you're a survivor
In a crowded room did you feel alone
Did you call up your mother and tell her you love her
Did you dust off that bible at home
Did you open your eyes and hope it never happened

Franciscorps Visits the Monastery

2011-08-27T06:27:00.000-07:00

The Franciscorps , directed by Friars Jim and Rick visited our Monastery so that we could learn about their new ministries and for them to learn our way of life.

All the young men and women are college graduates who have given one year to the service of the Poor.

Our Faith is enriched by their witness

of commitment.

We continue to pray for them.

Capuchin Poor Clares of Wilmington, DE join us to celebrate 800 Years of Clare Heritage

2011-08-27T06:12:00.000-07:00

We began our celebration with a prayer service followed by a delicious dinner

prepared by Sisters Fran, Etta, Nelia and Karen.

We had lively discussions at the dinner table about our way of life and everyone went away enriched by the day.

Visitors in August

2011-08-27T05:50:00.001-07:00

Friar Frank Walter visit us from Rome.

Father Resti celebrates his 20th anniversary of Ordination to the priesthood with us. Father Peter Cebulka joined in the celebration.

Friar Steve Kluge OFM blesses the grave markers for Sisters Marge and Shirley

2011-08-27T05:32:00.000-07:00

Friar Steve blesses the grave markers

during a prayer service in the cemetery of The Poor Clare Sisters in Chesterfield, NJ

August the 11, Feast of Saint Clare

2011-08-12T07:43:00.000-07:00

Evening Prayer,on the Feast of Saint Clare, was celebrated with the Friars and The Divine Word Community. Our Bordentown Knights of Columbus and Lady Yolanda, provided a festive meal for our guests and for us. The Knights have been doing this for over 35 years and we are most grateful to them.

At 7:00 PM all our friends joined us for the Eucharist. Friar Kyle Haden once again gave a very

meaningful reflection on being true to our identity and making Jesus the person we identify with each day.

August 10- Our Transitus of St. Clare

2011-08-12T07:35:00.000-07:00

August 10th, at 7:00PM, The Secular Franciscan Order (SFO) joined us to celebrate the death and passing of our Foundress, Saint Clare.
Friar Kyle Haden OFM, from the Holy Name of Jesus Province, shared his reflections on Saint Clare telling us that Clare, along with us, had to find her true identity by surrounding ourselves with friends and relatives that have the same value system.
One true friend for Clare was Jesus. So as Clare was dying she was able to say to her soul,

"Go in peace, my soul, because you will have a good escort.
The One Who created you
has made you holy.
The One Who created you
has infused the Holy Spirit in you
and then guarded you
as a mother does her littlest child. "

Feast Day Greetings

2011-08-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

Secluded but monitoring the world -

Our Poor Clare Life

We are preparing for the Feast of Saint Clare and we hold you all in prayer for all your loved ones, living and deceased.

Happy Feast to all our Brothers and sisters Throughout the world.

Prayer to Saint Clare

2011-08-05T16:28:00.000-07:00

O good and gracious God, we thank you for all that you have done for us.
Through the intersession of Saint Clare who, in her life time healed many
people, heal all our loved ones in body and spirit. Keep them in peace and joy.
We ask this through your Son and our Brother, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen

Secluded but Monitoring the World- The Poor Clare Life

St. Clare of Assisi
Foundress of the Order of Poor Ladies, or Clares, and first Abbess of San Damiano; born at Assisi, 16 July, 1194; died there 11 August, 1253.

She was the eldest daughter of Favorino Scifi, Count of Sasso-Rosso, the wealthy representative of an ancient Roman family, who owned a large palace in Assisi and a castle on the slope of Mount Subasio. Such at least is the traditional account. Her mother, Ortolana, belonged to the noble family of Fiumi and was conspicuous for her zeal and piety.

From her earliest years Clare seems to have been endowed with the rarest virtues. As a child she was most devoted to prayer and to practices of mortification, and as she passed into girlhood her distaste for the world and her yearning for a more spiritual life increased. She was eighteen years of age when St. Francis came to preach the Lenten course in the church of San Giorgio at Assisi. The inspired words of the Poverello kindled a flame in the heart of Clare; she sought him out secretly and begged him to help her that she too might live "after the manner of the holy Gospel". St. Francis, who at once recognized in Clare one of those chosen souls destined by God for great things, and who also, doubtless, foresaw that many would follow her example, promised to assist her. On Palm Sunday Clare, arrayed in all her finery, attended high Mass at the cathedral, but when the others pressed forward to the altar-rail to receive a branch of palm, she remained in her place as if rapt in a dream. All eyes were upon the young girl as the bishop descended from the sanctuary and placed the palm in her hand. That was the last time the world beheld Clare. On the night of the same day she secretly left her father's house, by St. Francis's advice and, accompanied by her aunt Bianca and another companion, proceeded to the humble chapel of the Porziuncula, where St. Francis and his disciples met her with lights in their hands. Clare then laid aside her rich dress, and St. Francis, having cut off her hair, clothed her in a rough tunic and a thick veil, and in this way the young heroine vowed herself to the service of Jesus Christ. This was 20 March, 1212.

Clare was placed by St. Francis provisionally with the Benedictine nuns of San Paolo, near Bastia, but her father, who had expected her to make a splendid marriage, and who was furious at her secret flight, on discovering her retreat, did his utmost to dissuade Clare from her heroic proposals, and even tried to drag her home by force. But Clare held her own with a firmness above her years, and Count Favorino was finally obliged to leave her in peace. A few days later St. Francis, in order to secure Clare the greater solitude she desired, transferred her to Sant' Angelo in Panzo, another monastery of the Benedictine nuns on one of the flanks of Subasio. Here some sixteen days after her own flight, Clare was joined by her younger sister Agnes, whom she was instrumental in delivering from the persecution of their infuriated relatives. Clare and her sister remained with the nuns at Sant' Angelo until they and the other fugitives from the world who had followed them were established by St. Francis in a rude dwelling adjoining the poor chapel of San Damiano, situated outside the town which he had to a great extent rebuilt with his own hands, and which he now obtained from the Benedictines as a permanent abode for his spiritual daughters. Thus was founded the first community of the Order of Poor Ladies, or of Poor Clares, as this second order of St. Francis came to be called.

The Co-op Staff-Duncan, Lo, Jeff and Tori-Picture of Jeff Tober, Farmer and Manager of co-op and Sr. Fran checking things out.

2011-06-22T08:16:00.000-07:00

Flowers around the Monastery and The Pigs at Kuser's Farm

2011-06-16T13:47:00.000-07:00

Father Leo and Father Jack, Divine Word Missionaries, celebrate their 50th Anniversary of Ordination. A Mass and a festive meal- enjoyed by all.

2011-05-23T06:51:00.000-07:00

Sister Miriam, our Abbess, celebrated her gift of Life on April 25th with the community. Blessings on her and her twin brother, Martin.

2011-05-02T06:25:00.000-07:00

Sister Denise Boyle from Franciscans International visits us.

2011-04-11T05:29:00.000-07:00

Sister Denise, a Franciscan Sister from Ireland and Executive Director of Franciscans International, visited us on April 8th and 9th to share with us her work on the Franciscan NGO, Non Governmental Orgination of the United Nations for the poor of the world. Sorry, I forgot to take pictures but you can find more about the Organization on their web page franciscansinternational.org The FI do marvelous work and we pray and support their efforts.

April Spring on the Monastery Grounds

2011-04-08T16:26:00.000-07:00

Lambs at the co-op farm and Turkeys on the Monastery Grounds

2011-03-28T11:16:00.000-07:00

Father John O'Connor OFM, Provincial of the Holy Name Friars, visits the Poor Clare Community

2011-03-21T12:22:00.000-07:00

Father John O'Connor OFM, Holy Name Province Provincial, visited us today March 21,the first day of Spring. Father John celebrated the liturgy and stayed for dinner prepared by Sister Etta, which by the way was delicious. After dinner we visited in our community room with Father John. Thank you for the visit.

Sister Shirley Irasga OSC -died February 26, 2011

2011-03-06T06:45:00.000-08:00

Sister Shirley was in the 53rd year of life and 26th of Religious Life. Shirley died at the Monastery surrounded by all the Sisters.
Born in Can-avid, East Samar, Philippines. In 1981, she entered the Franciscan Apostolic Sisters in the Philippines and in 1982 Shirley transferred to the Poor Clare Monastery in Stamford, Conn. When the Monastery in Stamford closed Shirley came to the Monastery in Chesterfield, NJ.
Sister Shirley was one of those gentle souls who worked quietly behind the scenes and always did everything with perfection.
Shirley loved a good party and she loved her Sisters.
Shirley leaves a hole in our hearts and we will miss her very much. She promised to send us two good women to replace her. Praise to our God for Shirley's life.

Friar Jim VanVurst, A Friar from Cincinnati, Ohio ,is giving us a retreat from February 13 to February 19.

2011-02-15T06:05:00.000-08:00

Friar Jim has been in many leadership roles, a teacher at University level, and presently, among other duties,is Religious Assistant to the Poor Clares in the Bentivoglio Federation.
Part of the retreat is learning to do some actual water color painting. The pictures above show Friar Jim doing a demo and other pictures are of the Sisters trying to do some painting.

Snow upon Snow -Beautiful, Quiet and Peaceful.

2011-01-27T07:52:00.000-08:00

We pray today for those who are plowing the snow so people can get to work. We pray for Police and firefighters and all who have to be out in this weather.

While the weather outside is cold and frosty, our Sister Pat, works quietly in a nice warm Monastery.

St. Francis and Saint Clare loved all of Creation but the birds were especially loved by both of these Saints.

2011-01-20T13:02:00.000-08:00

If you click on any of the slideshow pictures you can get a better view of the birds.

May God be praised in all of His creatures.

Sister Nelia received the Habit on January 15th and Sister Karen on January 17th. Congratulations. They are a blessing for our Community

2011-01-17T13:43:00.000-08:00

Christmas, and Visitors ,Knights of Columbus, Rosary Society of St. Clare, Florence, NJ at the Monastery

2010-12-28T06:31:00.000-08:00

Advent- Christmas Poem Dedicated to Sister Marge OSC

2010-12-10T07:14:00.000-08:00

Watching the evening news-
commercials breaking in
after tragic tales
we are told the meaning of Joy-
A BMW -
Always with a song for Happy Holidays -
never Christ's-Christmas-coming.

Settling in for Night Prayer
the dusk filling the chapel panes-
enveloping the quiet space -
a door -
enlightening the Joy within.

For He is Creator and Gift,
The Shepherd and the Lamb-
He is the Son and the Babe of Bethlehm-
always God's Son and always Son of Mary.
He is the Story and the Song-
The Melody and the Notes-
But always the Song
He sings through us,
Played out once in time
for us to learn.

He is Hope and Love,
Always Love.
He is Peace and Joy,
always His Joy.
Open the doors of our hearts.
He is doing something new.
Happy Holidays ???
It is never Happy Holidays,
Always Christ-for-the-masses,
Our Christmas Joy

Sister Margaret (Marge) McGowan OSC died December 2, 2010

2010-12-04T06:29:00.000-08:00

Our Sister Marge, died December 2, 2010 at 1:00PM at St. Joseph's Center in Morris Hall , Lawrenceville, NJ. Sister Miriam and the Sisters were present with Marge as she went home to the Good Shepherd whom she loved with all her heart.

Born in Summit, NJ, Sister Marge was a vice-president of a banking corporation for many years before entering the Poor Clares in Bordentown, NJ. Sister Marge was very instrumental in helping with the finances that helped build our new Monastery in Chesterfield, NJ. Mr Harry Hill, our lawyer at the time and Bill Taylor our construction person found Marge an asset to the building process.

The Sisters will miss Marge for many reasons not to speak of her wonderful Irish Wit.
We know Marge will intercede for us and send us vocations and maybe a dog.

Sister Nelia, our postulant, had visitors from North Carolina

2010-12-01T12:19:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed the visit of Evelyn and Arcie and their son Raymon and their daughter,Krystle

Friar Ron Pecci and the three new Postulants visit the Monastery

2010-11-17T08:51:00.000-08:00

The Three Postulants, Pedro, John and Jeff came for Mass and dinner and then shared with us their vocation story.

Our Sister Barbara leaves for Bolivia, South America

2010-11-04T10:34:00.001-07:00

Sister Barbara, from our Monastery and Sister Ann from the Monastery
in Langhorne, PA
left for a visitation of our Monastery in Corico, Bolivia after a prayer service and blessing from the Community. We founded the Bolivia monastery around 1959 or so and now that it has all women from Bolivia we continue to be aware of them and wish to know that all is well with them- hence a visit from the USA Clares. Sister Jane from our Monastery in Montana and our Religious Assistant Friar Tom Hartle OFM, also went on the trip. The latter two are not in the picture.

Murray Bodo OFM gives the Poor Clares in Chesterfield , a day of Poetry Reading

2010-11-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

Murray Bodo, OFM
Murray Bodo is one writer who, in this age of deconstruction and cynicism, resolutely believes that literature and life are deeply entwined. Perhaps that’s not surprising for a Franciscan friar and the author of best-selling books about St. Francis and St. Clare. But for Fr. Bodo, the essence of good writing is not preaching, but the adumbration of mystery. From his own poetry and creative non-fiction to his literary tributes to kindred spirits like Thomas Merton and Denise Levertov, Fr. Bodo invites us to find the meditative space where grace can make us whole. Unlike most religious writers, Fr. Bodo’s language never smacks of mere piety—which is probably why he’s one of our most popular Christian writers.

Sister Barbara and Sister Ann leave for our Foundation in Bolivia- Autumn Falls on the Monastery-Sister Mary Frances celebrates her Anniversary

2010-10-18T08:07:00.000-07:00

A Retreat at the Shore

Slide Show of the Stain Glass Windows in our Monastery in Bordentown, NJ, our old Monastery

2010-10-04T14:55:00.001-07:00

Lu-Nan and Nicholas Fan Visit our Monastery

2010-09-30T08:25:00.000-07:00

Visit of the famous photographer Lu-Nan and his humble friend, photographer, Nicholas Fan

2010-09-28T04:34:00.000-07:00

Documenting ‘hidden’ subjects – photographer Lu Nan and his philosophy
July 16, 2009 Filed under Center Stage
Leave a comment
By Han Manman

Lu Nan creates documentaries like none other. His work focuses on people who exist outside the mainstream, or who have slipped through its cracks. His subjects are lost and forgotten in a society of materialist elites.

Since he decided to be a documentary photographer some 20 years ago, he has lived like a monk, believing the “good stuff” comes from a simple and restrained life.

Lu-Nan has three photographic books: one on Mental Patienst, one on the Catholic Church in China and one on life in Tibet

Retreat Time

2010-09-25T06:03:00.000-07:00

The Martha/Mary Retreat, here at the Monastery, is similar to St. Francis' idea of some of the brothers spending all their time in prayer without doing any work while the "Mothers" as Francis called them, would do the necessary work as needed - cooking meals etc.

Some spent their time down by our creek. (pictures below).

This little quote below from Jan Karon's book A Continual Feast brought a big smile to my face.

From Gary Barnes' little paper, Over the Mountain:

How to keep a healthy level of Sanity:

Take time to sit by a flowing stream (mine)
As often as possible, skip rather than walk.
Sing along at the opera.
When money comes out of the ATM, yell"I won! I won!
Page yourself over the intercom-don't disguise your voice.
Every time someone asks you to do something, ask if they want fries with it.
Specify that your drive-through order is "to go".

Martha/Mary RetreatSeptember 19 to 25

2010-09-25T06:02:00.000-07:00

Sister Joann Guides the Sisters in the Dimentions of Our Contemplative Life

2010-09-16T03:08:00.000-07:00

The Sisters Worked on What Contemplative Accompanniment meant to them during the Workshop

2010-09-15T03:31:00.000-07:00

Contemplation as Accompaniment

We, as Poor Clares, reflected on the idea of ,Contemplation as Accompaniment, and we came to realize that this truth is a reality that we do daily almost without realizing it. It is simply an accompanying Jesus on theWay with my Sisters by following in the footprints of Clare and Francis. This entails the whole gamut of walking with others, with Creation and all of life. Our relationships with our sisters and others lead to our sensing the Divine Presence in every unfolding moment and being in tune with the Spirit. We are in mutuality most but not all of the time, continuing to stand with them. We allow one another to grow letting others be different but at the same time not losing the sense of self.
As we come to know the other we become more sensitive to their needs and are able to listen and hear what the other is truly saying. We allow them to make their needs known freely because of our comfortable presence and our respect of their dignity and of our own. We give the support and encouragement they need whether concrete or quietly as the situation necessitates.
A relationship with others is intrinsic to our relationship with God. As Scripture says, “If you cannot love your brother or sister that you can see how can you love the God whom you cannot see?” All communication is furthered by honesty but the honesty has to be compassionate. Compassionate honesty is necessary for trust.
Much of our contemplative accompaniment has to be in for the long haul, with the virtue of tenacity and patient endurance part of our responding to others. By our caring presence we bring to others, peace, hope and joy.
As music needs notes, we are the individual notes to the Melody of God which He is composing in our being, as our hearts expand to the dance of LIFE.

ALLELUIA!

New Draft
We, as Poor Clares, reflected on the idea of ,Contemplation as Accompaniment, and we came to realize that this truth is a reality that we do daily almost without realizing it. It is simply recognizing Jesus as theWAY with my Sisters after the example of Clare and Francis. This entails the whole gamut of walking with others, with Creation and all of life. Our relationships with our sisters and others lead to our sensing the Divine Presence in every unfolding moment and being in tune with the Spirit.
A relationship with others is intrinsic to our relationship with God.
Much of our contemplative accompaniment has to be in for the long haul, with the virtue of tenacity and patient endurance. By our presence we bring to others, peace, hope and joy.
As music needs notes, we are the individual notes to the Melody of God which He is composing in our being, as our hearts expand to the dance of LIFE.

ALLELUIA!

Sid OFM and his niece and cousin from Haiti stop in for a quick visit.

2010-09-13T06:21:00.000-07:00

Franciscorps to work in Costa Rica and Syracuse

2010-08-29T08:50:00.000-07:00

The group is composed of young women and men who have just graduated from college and want to take a year off from graduate school or new positions to give a year of service to the poor and needy. Some of the group will be going to Costa Rica and others to Syracuse, NY to work.

Friar Jim Moore, OFM Conventual, brought the Franciscorps group to our Monastery

2010-08-29T08:48:00.000-07:00

Father Martin Padovani, a Divine Word Missionary, celebrates his 50th Anniversary of Priesthood with us.

2010-08-26T08:30:00.000-07:00

A festive meal was enjoyed by Father Martin and the Sisters after the beautiful celebration of the Eucharistic Mass on August 25, 2010. It is wonderful to witness to the love of the priesthood that Father Martin has and his continued faithfulness and service to God's people and to us. Congratulations and our promise of prayers always.

Friars Michael Lasky of Franciscans International and Friar Michael Duffy of the Missions in Jamacia OFM Convs & Friar Walter OFM visit!

2010-08-17T14:40:00.000-07:00

.
Friar Frank Walter OFM of the Minister General's Council in Rome visited us on August 14th and 15th and celebrated Mass with us. Sister Miriam, our Abbess is pictured here with Friar Frank

Friar Michael Lasky OFM Conventual of Franciscans International and Friar Michale Duffy OFM Conventual of the Jamaica Missions visit us and share their experiences with us.
Michael Duffy

Feast of Saint Clare -August 11-2010

2010-08-12T07:42:00.000-07:00

Friar David Moczulski OFM preceded over the Transitus of Saint Clare on August 10th and celebrated the Evening Mass August 11th. Both of these nights the Chapel was full to capacity. Friar David gave two beautiful homilies each night which were very down to earth and meaningful for the people who attended.
We thank all the people who came and are grateful for their goodness to us throughtout the year.

Feast of Saint Clare

2010-08-06T16:16:00.000-07:00

The Transitus
The Passover of our holy Mother Clare to eternal life

The text is variously taken from Clare's writings, the Acts of Canonization, the Legenda Sanctae Clara virginis, the Lives of St Francis by Thomas of Celano, the Latin text of her sung Transitus, the Legenda versificata, the contemporary letter from the protomonastery to other houses recounting her passover and Innocent IV’s Bull, Solet annuere, 9 August 1253 that confirms Clare’s rule.

We have retained here the narrative form which we ourselves usually share after the first Vespers of her feast day. It requires nine voices: Narrator, Clare, Innocent IV, Agnes, Rainaldo, Philippa, Angelo, Amata & Benvenuta

Narrator
Divine Providence now hastened to fulfil its plan in regard to Clare, and Christ himself hastened to call the Poor Pilgrim to the palace of the eternal kingdom, she who longed to be dissolved from this body of death and see reigning in the celestial mansion Him whose holy poverty she, a poor little one, had followed on earth.

23 - 25 July 1253

The Lord Pope Innocent together with the Cardinals made haste to visit the handmaid of Christ. Approaching her bed, the Holy Father extended his hand to the lips of the holy virgin for her to kiss.

Clare
I beg and beseech you, Most Holy Father, humbly permit me also to kiss your feet.

Narrator
The Holy Father humbly standing on a small stool, charitably extended his foot, and the Lady Clare kissed it reverently both above and below.

Clare
Most Holy Father, I beg you to absolve me from my sins.

Innocent IV
Would to God, my child, that I had as little need of forgiveness as you.

Narrator
And he blessed her and gave her absolution.

Innocent IV
May the Lord absolve you from all your sins in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Clare
Amen.

Narrator
She begged the Holy Father to confirm her Rule and the privilege of most Holy Poverty.

After the Supreme Pontiff and his court had left, the Provincial Minister came and brought her Holy Communion. Then Clare lifted up her eyes to heaven and joining her hands towards God, said:

Clare
Praise the Lord, my little chidren, that in this day Christ has given me so great a favour, that heaven and earth would not suffice to repay it.

Agnes
What is that, dear Mother?

Clare
This day I have merited to receive the Most High Lord himself and to behold his Vicar.

5 - 9 August 1253

Narrator
The daughters of Clare stood about her bed and their hearts were moved with great anguish.

Agnes
O Mother, and most dear sister, do not depart from us, do not leave us orphans!

Clare
It is pleasing to God, Agnes my dearest sister, that I go hence. But weep no more, for you shall come to the Lord very soon after me, and before I leave you, our Lord will grant you a great consolation.

Narrator
Clare’s mind turned ever to the fate of her Rule and the future of her Order.

Clare
If I could but kiss the seal of the Bull approving our holy Rule, I would be well content.

Narrator
In her dying Clare was visited by many Cardinals and prelates, and she was in great agony and, in total, had passed seventeen days unable to eat. Yet she did not break into complaints, nor open her mouth in lamentation. The more powerfully she was stung by the barbs of suffering so much more did she bringing her song of praise to the Lord.

Psalm 115(116b)

All
I trusted, even when I said:
‘I am sorely afflicted,’
and when I said in my alarm
‘No man can be trusted.’

How can I repay the Lord
for his goodness to me?
The cup of salvation I will raise;
I will call on the Lord’s name.

My vows to the Lord I will fulfil
before all his people,
O precious in the eyes of the Lord
is the death of his faithful.

Your servant, Lord, your servant am I;
you have loosened my bonds.
A thanksgiving sacrifice I make:
I will call on the Lord’s name.

My vows to the Lord I will fulfil
before all his people,
in the courts of the house of the Lord,
in your midst, O Jerusalem.

Glory to the Father and to the Son
and to Holy Spirit
as it was in the beginning, is now
and will be forever. Amen

Narrator
That kindly man, Brother Rainaldo, visiting her, said:

Rainaldo
Have patience, mother and daughter and bride of Christ, for great and terrible are your sufferings and long indeed is this martyrdom and unbearable this anguish.

Clare
Dearest Brother, since I have known the grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ through his servant Francis, no suffering has troubled me, no penance has seemed too hard, no anguish too much to bear.

Narrator
Clare turned to the priests and friars that were there, saying:

Clare
I beg you, dearest Fathers and Brothers, to assist me and to read to me, I pray, the most holy Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ and his comforting words.

Narrator
After they had done this, Brother Juniper, who often uttered fiery words of God, appeared among them, and Clare was filled with new joy.

Clare
Brother Juniper, give me I beg you, some new word from Our Lord.

Narrator
At that, Juniper opened his mouth and sent forth sparks of such fiery words from the furnace of his burning heart that the virgin of God was greatly comforted. Then turning to all her sisters, she recalled with praise the blessings of God and entrusted them to the poverty of the Lord

Clare
My daughters, observe always the most holy life and poverty of our Lord Jesus Christ, who was born poor, who died for us on the cross of privation and humiliation, who was laid in a borrowed tomb, embraced Poverty as his bride and took her with him to heaven.

Narrator
She encouraged them to have joy and to bear with the poverty of our life for the love of God.

Clare
Bear with cheerfulness, bear with patience, the burden of Poverty. Bear humbly the burden of deprivation. The perseverance that grows from this will obtain, for those who continue in it for the sake of contemplating God, the joys of Paradise and the riches of eternal life.

Narrator
And she said many other things, speaking of the Most Holy Trinity with such depth that the sisters could not well understand her. Sister Philippa said to Sister Francesca:

Philippa
You have a good memory, remember what our Mother says.

Narrator
But Clare replied:

Clare
You will remember what I am now saying as far as He allows it, who now causes me to speak.

Narrator
Then she blessed all who had been kind to her, both men and women and invoked God’s blessing on her sisters who were present and those who were to come.

Clare
In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He show his face to you and have mercy on you. May He turn his countenance to you and give you peace.

And I, Clare, the handmaid of Christ though unworthy, the little plant of Saint Francis, and the sister and Mother of you and of all the other Poor Sisters, beseech our Lord Jesus Christ, through his mercy, and through the intercession of his most holy mother Mary, and of blessed Michael the Archangel, and of all God’s holy angels and of all his saints, that He who is our heavenly Father would bestow on you this most holy blessing, and confirm it both in heaven and on earth; on earth by enriching you in his grace and virtues among his servants and handmaids in the Church militant, and in heaven by exalting and glorifying you among his saints in the Church triumphant.

I give you my blessing now while living, and after my death, in as far as I may; nay, even more than I may, I call down on you all the blessings that the Father of mercies has bestowed and continues to bestow on his spiritual sons and daughters both in heaven and on earth. Amen.

Angelo
Let us be comforted in the Lord, beloved, for He who has given us such great grace and holy example through our blessed Mother will not leave us orphans in this valley of tears.

Narrator
And Leo, kneeling, kissed the bed of the dying saint. Amidst their tears and silent lamentation, the saint said quietly to her soul:

Clare
Go forth, without fear, for you have a good escort for your journey. Go forth, for He who created you has redeemed you and has placed in you his Holy Spirit and cherished you always and loves you with a tender love as a mother loves her child. Blessed are you, O Lord, who has created me.

Amata
Dear Mother, to whom do you speak?

Clare
I am speaking to my blessed soul.

Narrator
She turned to Sister Amata who knelt beside her, saying:

Clare
O daughter, do you see the King of glory whom I behold?

Silent pause

10 August 1253

Narrator
Then, at last, on the tenth day of the month, a friar came from the most holy Father Innocent, bringing the long-awaited confirmation of her Rule, and although she was not far from death, the Lady Clare took the parchment reverently in her hands and kissed it many times.

Innocent IV
We confirm by our apostolic authority this form of life, according to which you should live together in unity of mind and heart, in the profession of the highest poverty. To you and all that will succeed you.... So be it!

Narrator
Sister Benvenuta had sat with the other sisters near the bed of Clare and she had begun to reflect with joy on her great and wonderful holiness, it seemed to her as if the heavenly court must be preparing to receive her. While she was lost in these thoughts, she said she saw them unfold.

Benvenuta
I saw, coming and entering into the room many virgins clothed in white with golden crowns on their heads, and there walked among them one more resplendent than the rest, from whose crown, which was like a windowed thurible, such splendour shone forth in the house as to change night to day. She advanced to the bed where the spouse of her Son lay, and bending over her, lovingly embraced her. An exquisitely beautiful mantle was then brought forth by the virgins, who clothed Clare with it and adorned her bed.

Narrator
It was thus, on the day after that of Blessed Laurence, this most holy soul passed away to be crowned with everlasting rewards, and the temple of the flesh being laid aside, her spirit soared heavenward in bliss.

Blessed is that passing from this valley of tears that became for her the gateway to eternal life.

Women of Spirt through the courtesy of Sister Felicia Mann of the Sisters of St. Joseph

2010-08-03T13:24:00.000-07:00

Please click on picture to enlarge:

Sister Felicia graciously provided these pictures after her sixth visit to the exhibit. courtesey
The exhibition is of the work of the sisters in the United States who were the pioneers in education and medicine and were immigrants themselves who came to help the poor of the United States.

Dr. BJ McNeill and her Son Brent gave a grave marker for our dog, Maggie . They brought it over and a few of the Sisters were there

2010-07-23T13:29:00.000-07:00

to place it on the grave site. We are grateful for all the good care that Dr. McNeill gave to our Maggie and we thank her son, Brent, who does the business end of the vet's business for his concern for Miss Maggie. We could never have had a better vet. We thank them both for the beautiful grave maker but much more for their kindness and concern for Maggie and for us. We promise our prayers for them.

Father Peter James Alindogan, pastor at St. Charles Borremeo in Cinaminson, NJ celebrated Mass at the Monastery on his 20th anniversary

2010-07-17T12:39:00.000-07:00

of Ordination to the priesthood. We celebrated with coffee and donuts

Ted. Com Program on Creativity -Excellent- Take time to watch

2010-07-13T06:21:00.001-07:00

Friars Andre Cirino, Russell Murray and Benny who is from Sri Lanka came to our Monastery for a meeting on contemplation.

2010-07-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

Friar Larry Anderson celebrated a first Mass with us on June 24th, feast of John the Baptist and gave us his priestly blessing

2010-06-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

Friar Larry Anderson celebrated a first Mass with us on June 24th, feast of John the Baptist and gave us his priestly blessing

2010-06-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

Tiff, originally from China and now living in Virginia, came for a visit to see our Sister Mary Frances. We all enjoyed hearing about China and the Faith their that is beginning to take root. Father Joachim, a Chiniese priest, is also a good friend of Sister Mary Frances.

Flowers around the Monastery

2010-06-22T08:31:00.000-07:00

Although the weather is hot and humid the flowers are blooming fast and furious this summer. We enjoy walking around the gardens and sharing in the beauty that our good and gracious God provides for us with the help of our gardeners, Sisters Barbara, Etta, Karen and Nelia. Sister Florence dabbles in it a little bit and lets everyone know her contributions. No humility on her part.
Dabble according to Webster's Dictionary means to work or involve oneself without serious effort. This is true for Sister Florence.

Tribute to Maggie II- This is the last one but we needed to be sure all Maggie's Friends were in the Tribute.- that is Most of them-

2010-06-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

Still a few of Maggie's friends are missing. Blogger's Fault.

A tribute to our Maggie- Born a dog, August 20,2002 -Died a Princess, June 8, 2010

2010-06-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

We thank our good and gracious God, Friar Richard McFeely OFM, Fr. Martin Padovani and Father Lennon SVD Dr. BJ McNeills, Dr. James Clinton and Grace and Sue, Joe Mosner and all at Golden Grange, Pat and Bernie McClain, Fred Corbett, and his aunt Lois, Marie O'Brien and Clare Shaltis, the staff at North-Star Clarksberg, NJ and all who were so very good to our Magnificat(aka Maggie) Thank You. Many more that need a thank you- so if you are not mentioned know that it was human imperfection and God knows who you are and we do too but we are just a little spacey at this time -we thank you from the bottom of our heart.

Eddie Foley, an Eagle Scout, arranged to have this prayer garden made and to have it blessed by Father Michael Burns of St. Mary Church in Bordentown,

2010-06-07T13:55:00.000-07:00

Eddiie and his family and friends all turned out for the blessing of the garden and ice cream was served by "Sunday , Girls on the Go" which is Debbie Kinsley's catering service.
Eddie Foley worked hard to arrange all of this. Thank You, Eddie.

Mothers Incarnation and Rita visit our Monastery

2010-05-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

Our Sisters Miriam, Mary Frances, Barbara and Donna attended the Federation Meeting of Poor Clares in Milford , Ohio. When they returned that brought Mothers Incarnation and Rita, who also attended the meeting. The two sisters are from the Philippines and they wanted to see our Poor Clare Monastery in Chesterfield, NJ.

More pictures from the co-op farm -

2010-04-22T08:07:00.000-07:00

Friar Ray Frias came with the OFM Capuchin Postulants, Michael, Matthew and Ron for a visit and to share the Postulants vocation story, April 7th.

2010-04-11T06:48:00.000-07:00

Larry Kuser's Co-op Farm -next to our property. We are part of the co-op farm.The sheep have new borns which Erin Walker told us about

2010-04-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

Eric,one of the teachers showing the girls how to track animals.

Preparations for The Easter Vigil with Friar Michael Lasky : To view the group picture completely click on picture so you can see all the Sisters

2010-04-04T08:47:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday Morning we had an Easter morning brunch so Friar Michael Lasky OFM Conventual could drive to Maryland and be with his family.
The Easter Tridium was so peaceful and contemplative.
Thank You Friar Mike.

Good Friday Services at the Monastery. Friar Michael Lasky officiates at the Service. All go up to venerate the Cross

2010-04-03T02:54:00.000-07:00

Easter Peace to You

2010-04-02T15:56:00.000-07:00

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Have a Blessed Easter

2010-04-02T15:53:00.000-07:00

Holy Thursday April 1, 2010

2010-04-02T07:01:00.001-07:00

Each Holy Thursday we celebrate a festive dinner as Jesus celebrated the Last Supper with His friends before He died on Good Friday.
Friar Michael Laskey OFM conventual, joined us as he will preside over the 3 days of the Easter Tridium.
The pictures are , the preparation of the meal and the prayers before the meal.
The Holy Thursday Eucharist was celebrated at 7:00PM and all night adoration followed.

Spring comes to the Monastery Garden. Praise the Lord for His Creation.

2010-03-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

The Table recalls our Jewish Heritage.

Friar Brad Milunski OFM Conventual and his postulants from Washington DC visit the Poor Clares on March 6th

2010-03-07T08:34:00.000-08:00

Friar Steve Kluge gives us a Talk on the Eucharist

2010-02-24T13:52:00.000-08:00

Friar Steve said that our Eucharist is not a private function- It is a Holy work stemming from our Baptism. We are a royal Priesthood and we remember who we are. Our baptism gives us an identity and a mission. When is the church must Church. The answer is at Sunday Mass.

Friar Steve gave us much to ponder during this Lenten Season which begins with being attentive at Mass.

New Picture of our Community with new members

2010-02-22T07:06:00.000-08:00

Last row: Left to right

Sisters Etta,Shirley, Mary Frances,Pat,Claire Andre, Frances and Barbara

Second Row:
Sisters Natalie, Agnes, Miriam(our Abbess) Donna

First row:
Sisters Florence,Karen(former lawyer) Nelia(former nurse)

February 10, 2010- Winter Storm

2010-02-11T06:55:00.000-08:00

The Monastery Grounds looked so beautiful that we needed to share with you the beauty.

We have been aware of all the people without electricity and power along with the people who are still struggling in Haiti. so our prayers are with them daily. We also pray for the homeless and those struggling financially. All these intentions we hold close to our heart.

2010-02-04T10:51:00.000-08:00

The big event for February was Sister Frances Vass coming to our Monastery for a period of discernment. Welcome and Congratulations, Sister Fran.

Pictures also of our February Snowfall

and of course Maggie and her new bed Which she received for Christmas.

February Events

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Will Malarcher, our liturgical consultant, came to give us input on our chapel arrangement.

Sister Karen Stapleton's parish of Saint John the Apostle gave the community a cirborium in the event of Karen's entrance to our Community on January 17th.

Pictures of our first Snowfall for February.

Sister Frances Vass is being blessed by our Abbess, Sister Miriam, as she begins her discernment with us. Welcome and Congratulations, Sister Fran.

And oh yes, Maggie received a new bed for Christmas.

Karen Stapleton enters the Monastery of Saint Clare in Chesterfield, NJ on January 17, 2010

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Karen Stapleton, a lawyer by profession, entered our Monastery two days after our newest postulant, Nelia Acuna, entered. Now we have a nurse and a lawyer but beyond that two fine women who are seeking to give their whole life to God and to the Community of Poor Clares.
Welcome and we promise our prayers and support for you.

Nelia Acuna's Reception into the Order of Saint Clare at the Monastery of Saint Clare, Chesterfield, NJ.

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Father Julian celebrated Mass with 15 friends of Nelia's and with the Sisters of the Monastery follwed by coffee and snacks. After getting to know Nelia's friends the Entrance Service for Nelia began.
Sister Miriam, the Abbess of the Monastery, received Nelia, gave her the Breviary ( our prayer book of the hours of the office), a San Damiano Cross for her room and a Tau cross to wear during her Postulancy.
All the Sisters gave Nelia the exchange of Peace and welcomed her into the Community.

Eileen Flanagan's Workshop on our foundress of Poor Clare Life in the United States, Mother Bentavoglio. January 8, 2010

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The Poor Clares from Langhorn, PA attened the workshop, Sisters Evelyn, Abbess, Patricia, Jeanne Therese and Eden.

100 Year Celebration of the Poor Clares in Chesterfield, NJ

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Monastery 100 Year Celebration

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Sister Miriam, our Abbess, welcomes Friar George Sandor OFM Conventual who was the homilest for the Eucharistic Mass. Friar George has know the Poor Clares since he was twelve years old and has continued to be our good friend over the years.

November 21, 2009 100 Year Eucharistic Celebration and dinner

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We celebrated our 100 years of contemplative presence in the Bordentown/Chesterfield, NJ November 21,2009. Our foundering house, Boston, Mass. was represented by Sister Clare Frances OSC, Abbess and Federation President and Sister Veronica OSC . Sister Veronica Butler OSC who made our first foundation in Delray, FL.,was also present to join us in this joyful celebration. Karen Stapleton who will be entering January 17th came for a weekend visit and participated in the celebration.

November pictures

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One spectacular leaf that fell this fall reminding us of the beauty of God.

Mary, our friend from the Catholic paper, The Monitor, came for an interview with the sisters about our 100 years in the diocese of Trenton.

While we were talking to Mary, Sister Mary Clare Dangler, a Franciscan Sister of Christ the King, stopped in to say hello. Sister Mary Clare is from Crosswicks , NJ which is down the road a piece as they say and was visiting her family. She is now stationed in Kansas City.

Friar Novice , Gerald , (friar in the background)tells us his vocation story. He mentions that the witness of the people of his parish were the ones who fostered his calling especially the little grandmothers. Gerald loves his vocation and though there have been ups and downs he feels that this is where he is called.
Father Ron listens attentively to the story.
Friar Michael, tells us his story of coming to the Holy Name Friars as Sisters Barbara and Shirley listen. Michael too had good role models growing up, and when he came to the USA he worked as a computer expert but found that he wanted more out of life. Michael is happy at his choice.

Feast of Saint Francis, October 4, 2009

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Friar Jude Michael Krill was with us on the Feast of Saint Francis. Friar Jude celebrated our Mass and gave us a beautiful homily. One of the points he brought out was that Francis received his vocation at the Church of San Damiano and Clare received her vocation at Our Lady of the Angels. The surprising event though was that Our Lady of the Angels was home for Francis' order, the Friars Minor and San Damiano was home for Clare's order, the Poor Ladies.

The Collage below shows Friar Jude Michael enjoying dinner with Sister Miriam, Sister Barbara and Sister Claire Andre. Friar Jude Michael shows off his new stole and one of the pictures shows Jude Michael blessing our dog, Magnificat(aka Maggie) Francis loved all creation, birds, wolves and we are sure he would have loved Maggie.

Sisters of Saint Joseph /TOSF donate as a gift this elegant banner

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The Local Community Sisters of SSJ/TOSF gave us, the Poor Clares of Chesterfield, NJ, this elegant banner for our 100 anniversary of our presence in the Bordentown/Chesterfield area. The banner says that we have been a contemplative presence in the Trenton Diocese since 1909 when we were invited by Bishop McFaul.
We are grateful to Sisters Anne Marie, Barbara, Catherine, Dian, Dolores, Felicia, Geri, Illuminata, Jeanne, Joyce, Kenneth and Shawn for undertaking this task and doing the banner. We promise prayers for this local group of Sisters and for Trinity High School and the students and staff there.
God be with you all and may He reward you for your kindness to us.

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On September 1, 2009, to celebrate our 100 years in the Diocese of Trenton we invited Friars and Poor Clares in the area for a picnic All had a very relaxed and peaceful time and we expect to invite them back in 100 years.

Art at St. Bonaventure University

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Picture of Carciri in Italy by Eric Lopez OFM

This picutre pf San Damiano in Assisi, Italy is by Eric Lopez OFM

Another picture by Paul O'Keefe OFM

Art at St. Bonaventure University

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Paul O'Keefe OFM drawing

Franciscan Picnic

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