Alyssa Harpst shared the story of what prompted her choice to become a participant in the Benedicta Riepp Monastic Experience Program at the weekly gathering of the This & That Club. In her blogspot she comments, “Every experience shapes your path in life: where you go and who you will become. They will lead you to those whose hearts you will touch, and to those you allow to touch yours.” Click here to enjoy what Alyssa had to say about being a guest speaker!

Sister Phyllis Weaver, an attendee at the sharing, had this to say: "Alyssa spoke to a group of the elders so we could get to know her better. We have enjoyed her blogs about daily life here in the monastery. They really tell how well she is adapting to monastic life and our ministries in Erie's inner city. I really appreciated hearing her tell about her conversion two years ago, the changes she made in her college major and her decision to come here for this monastic experience program. She said she had intended to begin study for a master's degree but decided to come here first and she isn't sorry. Whatever she decides to do when she leaves here, whether it is working toward a master's degree in social work or something else, I am sure she will make the right decision for herself."

*The This & That Club is a weekly gathering organized by Sister Rita Zattosky with the help of Sister Helen Heher, Director of Wellness Services at Mount Saint Benedict Monastery. Sisters from the Infirmary and Assisted Living wings come together for movement activities, book discussion, movie, outreach project or information session, and always conversation and refreshments. Now in its fifth month, it has become clear that there is no end to the variety of activities that can bring the elders together, give them the opportunity to share with one another, and provide for interesting bits of “this and that” —all of which contribute to wholeness and well-being.