For the past couple of months, visitors to our monastery have seen a couple of new faces on our side of the cloister wall — but they look a bit different than our usual visitors. They’re not dressed like our aspirants and postulants, so who — and what — are they, and what are they doing in our monastery?

Well, it’s time we introduce you to Katelyn and Carolina!

For the past 7 years, these two women have been discerning an inspiration to found a new religious community in their adopted hometown of Lander, Wyoming. The Lord has continued to lead them forward, and their Bishop is very supportive, leading them through the usual steps in the formation of a new institute. You can read more about their story and charism on their website: https://windrivermonastery.org/

Back in 2018, Katelyn and Carolina came on a vocation retreat here. While they discerned that God was not calling them to Passionist life, both felt a special connection with our community. Those who hope to start a new religious institute are asked by Mother Church to spend a period of time living with an established community, to learn more about consecrated life by experiencing it “from the inside.” Katelyn and Carolina requested to spend this time at our monastery, and after a time of mutual discernment, permission was granted. They will be living with us for up to three years, during which time they will receive the novitiate formation courses that Sr. Mary Veronica usually gives to our own postulants and novices.

We are excited and honored to be a part of this Spirit-led work. It is a joy to have Katelyn and Carolina (and their cat, Gizmo!) in our monastery for this time, as they share their unique gifts and talents with our community. Please keep them in your prayers as they continue this journey of discernment and discovery!