There have been several excellent books written from the inside of monasteries and abbeys, penned by professed nuns who once walked the corridors in a haze of glory to have “left the world behind.”  As novices, they entered eager beyond expression to start their new lives, bold for the most part in their faith, and alive with the promise of a monastic vocation.

For nearly all, the dark night of the soul caught up with them.

Abbesses must be preternaturally expert in what they do.  Perhaps it would be better to say that the Chapter of voting nuns is preternaturally expert in choosing one from among them to lead gently but succeed fabulously in the oversight of the community.  Dozens of women of all ages and backgrounds, in all stages of maturity (and immaturity,) all counting on the Abbess to help them, really help them, get where they want to go, to steer them through the rough spots and to light the way through the dark.

Those Shepherdesses that are wise are able to keep these women heading true north, all of them.   This is the direction, for them and for us: we will find our delight in Jesus Christ.  (Psalm 37:4)

Now we have to help one another over the less than thrilling miles we travel to get there … because in their house and ours, we want to find joy in the journey!  Look, dear Sisters, at what lies ahead . . .

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7, KJV)

Psalm 37:4 … Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.  (KJV)

Victoria’s Tower, from the Cloisters at Westminster Abbey

Arjen Bax, by permission