At 5.30 each morning the sisters rise. After a prayer and a wash we dress
quickly and hurry to the chapel where the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament
is waiting for us. At a sign from Mother Abbess we begin the first part of the
Divine Office. The day is given to us by God, so we ask Him to bless it that it
may be entirely bright and holy. We join the whole creation in praising the
Creator. The theme of joy and praise is strong in these morning prayers,
echoing throughout the hymns, psalms and readings.
After breakfast, we prepare for Holy Mass with half an hour's silent prayer as this
is the focal point of the day, for every time we celebrate Mass all the suffering
and agony of mankind is present. Through that offering love, forgiveness and
hope are in some way being given, not just to this community, but like the pebble
cast into the pond, the ripples go on and on outwards. It is our earthly way of
being involved in the great heavenly liturgy which is going on all the time.
Morning Prayer and Terce follow, after which we go off to our appointed tasks
remembering the words. "Go in the peace of Christ", which the priest bids us
at the close of Mass
Now ordinary work begins, correspondence, cleaning, laundry and cooking
for the community, the chaplain and any guests who may be staying with us.
The sisters are kept busy between door and telephone bells and the Bursar
sees to the business affairs of the house and deals with unseen emergencies.
A Day Retreat and Conference Centre has recently been opened in
the grounds of the convent so we are kept busy organising the centre.
By 12 o'clock we are ready to send our next shaft of praise back up to heaven.
Work is set aside as we gather to sing Midday Prayer. Then comes a short
pause as we review the day so far and appraise our part in it by examining our
consciences.
Dinner follows and we eat without speaking to each other while a spiritual book
is being read. After dinner there is a semi-free time, a chance to write letters or
do odd jobs for oneself. Many take the opportunity to go out and work in the large
garden where we grow our own fruit, vegetables and flowers.
After 4 o'clock we return to the Chapel for Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament,
meditation and the Rosary followed by Vespers or Even Song when we thank
God for all His blessings. After a light supper we gather for an hour's recreation
which is a happy time of relaxation together until 7.15 when the bell rings for night
prayer. We ask God for protection and forgiveness at the end of the day. At 7.30
the Great Silence begins. Final tasks of the day are completed and at 9.30 all
must be in their cells and lights are out by 10.30.
There is a certain pattern to each day yet they all differ from each other.
Adoration of the Eucharist is of utmost importance especially on Sundays which
is the day to celebrate, for "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and
exult in it." Another week in our life with God is beginning, we do well to rejoice.
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