Bringing the Spirit Home: Sisters Enriched by Monastic Worship Forum

At a recent conference, Benedictine Sister of Perpetual Adoration Ruth Elaine Starman, OSB (left) and Sister Nancy Rose Gucwa, OSB browse music and monastic liturgies used by different monasteries from around the country. Photo credit: Monastic Worship Forum

Sister Ruth Elaine Starman, OSB, and Sister Nancy Rose Gucwa, OSB, recently joined fellow Benedictines from across the country at the Monastic Worship Forum, held in June at Glastonbury Abbey in Hingham, Massachusetts.

The workshop centered around monastic worship and liturgical life, with keynote speaker Father Ed Foley, OFMCap, presenting on the topic, “Liquid World, Liquid Belief: Monastic Worship in the 3rd Millennium.” In addition to the keynote, the gathering included sessions on music, resources and ritual sharing – offering fresh inspiration and renewed perspectives for attendees.

“I enjoyed the music sharing since they had some new music for liturgy that I would like to try,” Sister Nancy Rose said. “I also enjoyed Father Foley’s presentation, as it gave me a greater appreciation for the theology of the real presence of Christ.”

Sister Ruth Elaine found the experience equally enriching.“It was wonderful to connect with other musicians and monastics. I’m especially enjoying bringing back what I learned and incorporating it into the music we use here at the monastery for our liturgies and prayer services,” she said.

Outside of the sessions, attendees had the chance to explore the Boston area, enjoy time at the beach and share laughter and community during an evening talent show.

Attendees of the Monastic Worship Forum pose in front of the Duck Boat that took them around a tour of Boston and the surrounding area as part of the conference’s recreational opportunities. Photo credit: Sister Siena R. Fisk, OSB