In this follow-up interview with Sister John Marie, she shares her journey of faith and the lessons learned over the past two and a half years in cloistered life, emphasizing the importance of daily holiness and the depth of spiritual life.
Welcome to another episode of Kept In Her Heart, where we explore various aspects of faith and spirituality. In this post, we revisit Sister John Marie, who we last interviewed two and a half years ago before her first profession as a nun at the Monastery of Saint Clare, the Poor Clares in Sock Rapids, Minnesota. This follow-up is driven by popular demand, and we are excited to share her insights and experiences since then.
Sister John Marie begins by reflecting on a simple yet profound experience involving a piece of celery and a statue of Saint Joseph in her kitchen. After placing the celery by the statue, she received a surprise visit from someone who gifted her fresh celery from their garden. This moment serves as a reminder of the small blessings that can come from faith and trust in God.
When asked about the most significant lessons she has learned during her time in the cloister, Sister John Marie emphasizes that holiness is an everyday endeavor. She recounts the passing of a 98-year-old sister who had dedicated 70 years to her vocation, prompting her to reflect on the nature of commitment and daily sacrifice.
Sister John Marie notes that focusing too much on the big picture can lead one to overlook the small, daily sacrifices that contribute to spiritual growth. She shares her admiration for Saint Therese, whose approach to spirituality resonates with her own journey. The essence of her message is that holiness is not a distant goal but a daily practice that brings joy and peace.
When discussing whether cloistered life has met her expectations, Sister John Marie provides a nuanced answer. While she anticipated the cloistered lifestyle, she admits that the depth of the spiritual life has exceeded her expectations.
Sister John Marie expresses that the spiritual journey is rich and profound, filled with experiences that she had not anticipated. This depth has allowed her to grow in ways she never imagined, reinforcing the idea that spiritual life is a continuous journey of discovery.
As we conclude this follow-up interview with Sister John Marie, it is clear that her journey in the cloister has been transformative. Her insights on daily holiness, the importance of small sacrifices, and the unexpected depth of spiritual life offer valuable lessons for anyone on a faith journey. Sister John Marie's story is a testament to the beauty of commitment and the joy that comes from living a life dedicated to God.
