Advent is a rich liturgical season celebrated in the church, especially monasteries, as a preparation for the coming of the Lord.  It marks the beginning of the Church's calendar year and a new cycle in salvation history. Advent offers a critique of our consumer approach to Christmas. It is a time to go inward, to open our hearts to the birth of Christ.  We are also invited to discover those inclinations in our inner and outer lives that impede this Holy Birth.   

Here are some offerings to help your preparation for the coming of the Lord:

Sr. Kathy's Chapter Talks

Sr. Gertrude's Daily Lectio

We are pleased to announce that Sister Gertrude’s book, Cardinal Basil Hume: A Pilgrim’s Search for God (Gracewing, 2019) is now available in Dutch and French. The Dutch edition is under the title, Kardinaal Basil Hume: Een Pelgrim Die God Zoekt (halewijn/Adveniat, 2020); the French edition, Cardinal Basil Hume: Un pèlerin à la recherche de Dieu(Saint-Léger Éditions, 2019). The book is the fruit of Sister Gertrude’s doctoral studies at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas, also known as the Angelicum, where she earned a Doctorate in Sacred Theology in 2015.

WHITEHORN, California — The first time I visited my sisters here at Redwoods Monastery was in mid-June of 1994. It’s hard to believe that it’s been 26 years since that initial brief visit to this wonderful community, in this place of truly awesome beauty. Since that first three-day stay, as I remember it, I’ve been coming down here almost every year, from my home community of Guadalupe Abbey near Carlton, for longer stays. I’ve consistently been helping with their Holy Week and Easter liturgies. This has meant being here for two, sometimes three, weeks in March and April.

The monastery garden has been improved with a new fence and gates.  Some of the gates were hand crafted, adding a distinctive flair and artistic touch to our already luxuriant garden.  

Prayer for Discernment

LORD, help me:
   TO boldly take charge of my life, aim for the most beautiful and profound things, and keep my heart pure.
   TO respond to your call, with the aid of wise and generous guides, and realize a proper plan for my life to achieve true happiness.
   TO  dream great dreams and
always have a concern for the
good of others.
   TO  stand with you at the foot
of the cross and receive the gift
of your mother.
   TO  witness to your Resurrection and the hope
that it brings.
   TO  be aware that you are at
my side as I joyously proclaim
you as Lord. Amen.

                  — Pope Francis

Commemorate the 57th Annual World Day of Prayer for Vocations by reading the Pope's message. (click "Read More)