Upon entering the monastery chapel, before a word is spoken, it is clear that the season of Lent has begun. The cross stands strong and central as...
About the Benedictine Sisters of Erie
Corporate Commitment
A corporate commitment is a vision or goal that we agree to promote as a community and as individuals no matter where we are or in how many diverse ministries we might be engaged. The corporate commitment of the Benedictine Sisters of Erie is:
As Benedictine Sisters of Erie we commit ourselves to be a healing presence and prophetic witness for peace by working for sustainability and justice, especially for women and children.Charism Statement
A charism is a particular way in which people respond to God's call. A community’s charism embodies they way the members carry out their mission and ministries. The Benedictine charism is:
The Benedictine way is to seek God in the communal life and to respond in prayer and ministry.Common Life
Community
Life as a Benedictine Sister of Erie is centered in community, following the Rule of St. Benedict under the guidance of the Prioress. We are vowed in the Catholic tradition promising with perpetual vows: stability, fidelity to the monastic way of life and obedience. A commitment to the common good and respect for each other support us in our search for God and nurture the bonds of community.
Prayer and Liturgy
As Benedictine women, prayer is central to our monastic life. The community gathers three times a day for the Liturgy of the Hours, the basis of our communal prayer. The festive marking of Sunday, along with the great feasts and seasons of the liturgical year, includes the celebration of Eucharist as well. Daily lectio divina, occasional reconciliation services, and various annual events complete the community’s liturgical life.
Ongoing Formation
How does one keep fresh and alive the energy and joy of responding to one’s call to monastic life? The community’s commitment to continuing education – to our On-going Formation Program – is one way. This program is implemented through a series of regularly scheduled community meetings. The meetings focus on areas that will aid in our growth and development as human persons and monastic women in church and society.
Ministry
Ministry is an integral part of monastic life. Inspired by the Gospel and the Rule of Benedict we respond to the needs of God’s people. We steward the gifts, talents and skills that have been given to us and extend them through service. Community and non-community ministries alike provide the opportunity for meaningful work that is consistent with our monastic commitment to glorify God in all things.
Community Life
Celebration in Honor of "A Lifetime of Bread Baking"
A “Lifetime of Bread Breaking” was celebrated when the community gathered to express their thanks to Sister Irene Warchol on the occasion of her...
"Riepper" Tells Her Story
Alyssa Harpst shared the story of what prompted her choice to become a participant in the...
The Gift of Apprenticeship
Benedictines are no strangers to the concept of “apprenticeship.” Benedictine life is a “school for God’s service” (Rule of Benedict, Prologue 45...
Celebrating Saint Scholastica
Today, February 10, is the day we celebrate Scholastica, the sister of Benedict. It will be a festive day at the monastery as we mark the...
Sister Irene Warchol, OSB, Bread Baker par excellence!
Be sure to check out the Erie Times-News editorial featuring Sister Irene Warchol, community bread baker, who retired just a few weeks...