We begin our day in Development/Communications with staff meeting together for prayer. The other morning, I walked into a conversation between Sisters Carol Berg and Karen Rose. S. Carol asked, "Where has July gone? It seems as if it just started and now we're beyond mid-point!" To which Sister Karen replied, "Oh yes!" Then at lunch someone asked me innocently, "What are you doing this summer, since things really slow down in the Development and Communication Office? I'll bet you have time for leisure." The looks on S. Karen's and S. Carol's faces were a sufficient answer!

During the rest of the year we are in a rhythm determined by what happens each week and each month. Summer, on the other hand, has many annual happenings: celebrations, retreats, conferences, updates and planning for the new fiscal year. It's a busy time but a good time that makes us grateful for many blessings.  

Here are a few highlights of the month of July. If you live in St. Joe, you know that the population more than doubles on July 3 and 4, when about 15,000 music lovers come for the concert and fireworks, and 10,000 people gather for the parade.Though I may be biased, the Alexandria band was the best, since my grandnephew was the lead drummer!  

July 11, the Feast of St. Benedict, is our most meaningful celebration. Sister Mary Weidner celebrated her 50th jubilee. Her family and friends joined the monastic community for the Eucharist, praising and thanking God for S. Mary's life of commitment and dedicated service to others.  

At evening prayer, Novice Tammy Shoemaker made her first monastic profession. It was a delight to see and feel the joy radiating from Sister Tammy. Everyone caught the moment with uninhibited applause. Our community photographers, Sisters Nancy Bauer and Karen Streveler, made sure we had a record of the event. You can see some of the photos below. 

On July 22 we celebrated Heritage Day, commemorating the anniversary of the arrival of Mother Benedicta Riepp and two other Sisters who came to America and set up the first Benedictine convent in this country. Each year we remember our Sisters who made their first profession 100 years ago.  

Over the summer there have been many ordinary and extraordinary events. Some of the more difficult were serious illnesses and deaths of family members, friends, relatives and donors. Just this past week, our dear Sister Danile Knight went to her eternal home. For over 50 years she lived at Mount Benedict Monastery in Ogden, Utah, until 2010 when the Sisters transferred back to Saint Benedict's Monastery.  

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Gratitude Day, Friday, August 21, is on the horizon; invitations are out and responses are being returned quickly. Due date for responses is August 7. The day has a new format. Plan to visit our ministry booths -- you may be surprised at what you learn. And there's a rumor that there will be some special prizes!

Next, check out the "Joy Jabbers" -- short talks which will inform, inspire and entertain you.  

Why not come early and visit the gift shop and museum? The Haehn Museum has a unique exhibit telling the story our Sisters who ministered in South America and the gift shop next door has three-dimensional art pieces (cuadros) for sale, all handmade by women from a cooperative in Peru. An added bonus is that you may meet some of the Sisters who worked in Brazil and Chile!

The climax of the day is a short prayer service and the presentation of the Mother Benedicta Riepp award, which begins at 6:30 p.m. Following this will be a short skit by Sisters to express our deepest gratitude to each of you for your generosity and support. A closing blessing will send you on your way.  

Oops! I forgot to tell you that we will have numerous door prizes after the blessing. To be a winner, you need to be present.

Gratitude Day is our way of thanking you face to face. We enjoy this day-and hope you do, too!