Crossing the Threshold

Today we celebrate the Feast of St. Scholastica.  She was the twin sister of St. Benedict according to tradition.   What little we know about her we find in the story of the life of St. Benedict.   She and her brother used to get together once a year for conversation on the spiritual life and to praise God.   The charming part of the story is that when Benedict wanted to leave and go back to his monastery because it was late, Scholastica begged him to stay and continue their conversation.  He refused so she prayed to God to prevent it and instantly there was a violent thunderstorm.  So Benedict had to spend the night and they both benefited from the additional sharing.  

On this festive day we also welcomed a new postulant.  Maria was brave enough to cross the threshold to begin the next phase of her spiritual journey!  The Rule of Benedict states in chapter 58, “Therefore, if someone comes and keeps knocking at the door…and has persisted in her request, then she should be allowed to enter…”   

Observing this ritual once again reminded me of my own entrance into monastic life back in September of 1993.   I was excited but scared.  My desire to try religious life was stronger than my fears.  That is a key sign in discernment, I think.  Fears are normal and inevitable and I’m more concerned if someone doesn’t have some fears.  To step into the unknown should cause some fears to arise.  However, it’s when you don’t let the fears stop you that you can be more assured that this is an authentic call.