Four women, two Mexicans and two young Nicaraguans, in this tiny house in
the
neighborhood, and what a difference they make.
They have no great evangelizing programs, strategies, or organized apostolate.
They live a simple community life, based on the Rule of Benedict.
So many people in this crowded area and so many things happening.
So little to
live on, so little to work with. And yet there is a
vital spirit all around them.
The sisters seem to be just a natural part of all that is happening.
Not
controlling, not directing, not even teaching -- but a
center of gentle,
prayerful, and supportive presence in an
otherwise chaotic space.
Children and adults come to join the sisters for prayer.
The sisters reach out, neighbors to the sick, the elderly.
Reach out to the suffering.
There is a radiance of care, friendship, and peace that goes out from
this
little dwelling.
A great tree that shelters and embraces the neighborhood.
Back in Weston, we reflect on their presence.
Surely what we witnessed there was an authentic expression of Benedictine
monastic life.
