“So…what are you getting for Christmas? A glimpse of the light of the star? A vision of peace and welcome in a broken and divided world? The certainty that you, just as you are, are welcomed and loved by God? The gift has been given. Those who are wise continue to receive it with thanks.” — Rev. Patricia Gillespie

Dear Friend,
On behalf of the 100 “wise” Benedictine women in this monastery we give thanks everyday for the gift of your friendship and generosity. We cherish your kindness and remember you in prayer daily.

During this Christmas season we remember what is most important in our lives and you are right at the top of our thank you list.

• Because of you, 100 Sisters are empowered to live in Community, a life that gives us the strength and stamina to respond to all who ask for help.
• Because of you, Mount St. Benedict Monastery continues to be a center of hospitality and spirituality.
• Because of you, inner-city children are given the opportunity to grow and develop their artistic talents at the Inner-City Neighborhood Art House.
• Because of you, hungry families and children are fed at Emmaus Ministries.
• Because of you, economically disadvantaged children are able to attend early childhood day care and headstart programs at St. Benedict Center.
• Because of you, low income elder citizens have access to housing in a safe environment adjacent to the monastery at Benetwood Apartments.
• Because of you, recreation is accessible to all who need it, irrespective of race or physical capabilities, at St. Benedict Community Center.
• Because of you, refugees and those out of work are taught the skills needed to seek full-time employment at St. Benedict Education Center…despite a $2.5 million cut in state funding to the program.

We give thanks for your generosity each Sunday at Liturgy and remember that together we are actively building a world where we can see “A glimpse of the light of the star…A vision of peace and welcome in a broken and divided world…The certainty that you, just as you are, are welcomed and loved by God...” Not just for Christmas day, but for all 365 days of the year.

A financial gift to our Christmas appeal will be graciously received no matter what the size. Whether it is $1 or $1,000, we smile and say, “THANK YOU!”

May good tidings of great joy be with you and your family this season.

In peace,
Sister Anne Wambach, OSB, Prioress
and the Benedictine Sisters of Erie

P.S. If you would like to give online, click here for donation options.