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Karen Sames, Benedictine Associate

Sister Karen Sames, OSB

 

I’ve been a vowed member of St. Paul’s Monastery for 31 years. When I entered, I thought there had to be more to life than all the comfort things that I had.  I felt I could do more if I was in a community of like-minded women who also wanted to serve God’s people.

I became a member of the Committee of the Benedictine Associates very early in its development.  We worked and discussed many issues as we put together the Organizational Plan. First we asked the women who were interested in this new venture what they were looking for and how could we help meet their needs. The Benedictine Associates are a way for single, Catholic women to form closer relationships with the Sisters of St. Benedict at St. Paul’s Monastery and amongst themselves.

We share formation opportunities together where we share on deeper levels. Some formation gatherings we share such are books and commentaries on the Benedictine way of life, Henry Nouwen’s books on spirituality formation, S. Mary Irene Nowell’s book on Wisdom, Rule of Benedict, retreats sponsored by the community, road trips to St. Benedict’s in St. Joseph and one of the favorites is shared time together around the fires at the fire pit. The Associates also participate in community prayer, meals, ministries, and volunteer opportunities where they interact with the Sisters.

If this sounds like what you are looking for just call 651-777-8181 or email us at ksames@stpaulsmonastery.org.