by Phil Soucheray, Visitation Companion What is evangelization anyway? Faith in the context of organized religion often seems decorated with a lot of trappings. The array of dogma and doctrine that we get immersed in and the rituals we are told we are obliged to participate in for the saving of our Read more…
by Sr. Mary Virginia Schmidt, VHM In the evening, as I stood in the garden at Girard watering the plants after a dry spell, I could hear the Basilica bells ringing out the Angelus — that lovely prayer that Catholics pray 3 times a day. As that sound echoed across the city Read more…
by Phil Soucheray, Visitation Companion I just got done reading Hermann Hesse’s “The Glass Bead Game.” Until a few weeks ago I had never heard of the book. I did not know that it was the final full-length novel by this noted German writer. Heck, he won the Nobel Prize Read more…
by Phil Soucheray, Visitation Companion God invites. Are we willing to listen? Be still and know that I am God. That’s what the psalmist wrote in Psalm 46. Like many of the psalms, the context of the lyrics refers to a powerful God in whom humanity is urged to find Read more…
Hi there. My name is Phil. I’m a Vis Companion, which is another way of saying that I am a purpose driven life wanna-be who knows he has a lot to learn before he’s fulfilled his potential. As it happens, I believe the model of Salesian spirituality as displayed and Read more…
by Guest blogger Anna Dourgarian, Visitation Intern Volunteer The 2012-2013 Salesian Monday Night series focuses on the 7 Essentials of Monastic Life that the Vis Sisters have outlined for their community. The following post is part two* of VIP Anna Dourgarian’s co-presentation with Sr. Karen on Silence. My two favorite Read more…
From Guest Blogger Claire Kranz, Vis Alumna, Student at St. Louis University Marvel at God’s goodness. ~St. Francis de Sales Thanksgiving week is finally here and from a school and work perspective, I could not be more ready. But, as I sit here, admittedly listening to Christmas music, I realize Read more…
From Guest Blogger Claire Kranz, Vis Alumna, Student at St. Louis University God doesn’t call us to feed everyone, just to give Him everything we have. ~Fr. Joe Krupp, OSFS This past weekend I was fortunate enough to attend the National Salesian Conference here in St. Louis. Among the speakers, Read more…
by Melissa Borgmann-Kiemde, Visitation Companion “‘And when the door bell rings, you will get your agenda,’ says the Lord.” — Sr. Mary Frances Reis, vhm on the doorbell ministry at the Visitation Monastery north Minneapolis I’m a planner. I like to plan things. Maybe you are like me? You take Read more…
by Melissa Borgmann-Kiemde, Visitation Companion A former student sent me the following words. I find such balm in them and in this young woman’s thoughtfulness. I am deeply moved by the author Louise Erdich’s ability to inspire and capture our heart’s compelling nature to love beyond fear, death, suffering, betrayal, Read more…